Russia: WHO interested in widespread use of Sputnik V vaccineApril 22, 2021 - 14:39 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Director General of the World Health Organization (WHO) Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has confirmed the WHO’s interest in the widespread use of Russia’s Sputnik V vaccine at a meeting with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Vershinin in Geneva, TASS reports. "Tedros Adhanom praised Russia’s weighty contribution to multilateral cooperation under the auspices of the WHO, including global efforts to combat the Covid-19 pandemic. The organization is interested in the widespread use of Russia’s Sputnik-V vaccine and other responsible drugs in the prevention of coronavirus infections so as to help countries in need, including through international mechanisms," the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement released on Wednesday, April 22. The Russian Foreign Ministry pointed out that the sides had an in-depth discussion on how to strengthen the WHO’s readiness for and response to outbreaks of dangerous infectious diseases, along with other health emergencies. "Our country reaffirmed its commitment to stepping up constructive cooperation with the WHO as a key UN organization that ensures coordination of international work in the health sector," the Russian Foreign Ministry said. Armenia earlier announced that it has reached an agreement for 1 million doses of Russia’s Sputnik V vaccine. Health Minister Anahit Avanesyan said the country might be able to vaccinate 20% of the population by the end of the year. Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Mirzoyan says meeting with Bayramov was “constructive” At the moment, Ararat Mirzoyan said, there is no basis for additional comments. OSCE vows support for Armenia “in all three directions of security” Achieving stable peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan remains a priority of the OSCE, said Ian Borg. 151 detained as civil disobedience campaigns continue in Yerevan Citizens have been blocking streets in the Armenian capital, demanding Nikol Pashinyan’s resignation. France welcomes Armenia-Azerbaijan meeting in Almaty France has welcomed the new round of negotiations between the foreign ministers of Armenia and Azerbaijan. |