DAVAO CITY, Philippines — Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has vowed to help the Philippines in its fight against the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) by providing a vaccine now being developed by pharmaceutical firms in India.
In a phone conversation with President Duterte that lasted for 25 minutes, Modi reaffirmed his country’s shared commitment to harness international and bilateral cooperation to effectively address the pandemic.
The Indian leader initiated the call to Duterte, who was then at Malacañang’s South Guest House, at around 7 p.m. on Tuesday.
Malacañang said both Duterte and Modi vowed to play key roles as partner countries in the Indo-Pacific region in the fight against COVID-19.
India has been recognized as one of the world’s leaders in the production of medicine as well as in developing a vaccine against COVID.
Duterte recognized India’s role as global producer and source of affordable and accessible medicine. He commended Modi for allowing India’s export of pharmaceutical products.
He said the decision to help the Philippines demonstrated India’s “commitment to cooperation and good neighborliness.”
He also noted India’s efforts in developing a vaccine for SARS-CoV-2.
He lauded India’s efforts in managing the pandemic, noting that the country’s 2.82 percent fatality rate is among the lowest in the world.
Modi, on the other hand, congratulated Duterte for his leadership and effective management of the coronavirus situation in the Philippines.
Meanwhile, Canada yesterday announced that it is providing additional P44.5 million in COVID assistance to the Philippines.
“The COVID-19 pandemic is a global threat that does not recognize borders and can only be overcome through coordinated action around the world. The government of Canada is therefore pleased to partner with the Philippines in its efforts to combat the virus,” the embassy of Canada in Manila said in a statement. Alexis Romero, Pia Lee-Brago