Saudi King says COVID-19 crisis ‘true test’ of global health systems

Saudi Arabia’s King Salman said the COVID-19 pandemic is a “true test” of the global health systems. 

“We are facing an unprecedented health challenge on the level of individuals, society and economy,” King Salman added in the G20 Leaders Side-Event: Pandemic Preparedness and Response. 

The COVID-19 crisis proved that international cooperation and joint action is the best way to overcome crises. 

“We should focus on the most vulnerable categories. We will not be able to overcome this crisis, unless we provide support for all countries worldwide. No one is safe, until everyone is safe,” the Custodian of The Two Holy Mosques added. 

The top priority now is ensuring the availability of the coronavirus vaccines, therapies and diagnostic tools in a fair and affordable manner.  
 

“We are looking forward to crystallizing and implementing this initiative during the Italian Presidency next year,” King Salman pointed out. 

During Saudi Arabia’s Presidency, with the support of the G20 members , we proposed   the Access to Pandemic Tools (APT) initiative, which aims at ensuring focus on sustainable preparedness and response to counter any future pandemic. “We look forward to furthering this discussion and implementation during the Italian Presidency next year,” King Salman said. 

Saudi Arabia has also benefited from key initiatives, during the G20 Presidency, to address gaps in the preparedness and response for global crises.  

“Together we can reach our goal of protecting lives, livelihoods and shaping a better world to realize the opportunities for the 21st century for all,” he added.