On Tuesday, leaders of 23 countries and the World Health Organization backed the idea of an international agreement that would help the world tackle future health-related coronavirus epidemics.
The idea for such an agreement, which would ensure universal and equal access to vaccines, drugs, and infectious disease diagnoses, was put forward by EU leaders Charles Michel at the G20 summit last November.
"There will be other epidemics and other major health emergencies. No government or multilateral body can deal with this threat alone," the leaders wrote in a joint opinion article in major newspapers.
"We believe that the nations must work together for a new international agreement on epidemic preparedness and response," he said.
He said the main purpose of the agreement was to strengthen the world's resilience to future epidemics through better warning systems, data sharing, research and development, and distribution of vaccines, medicines, diagnostic and personal protective devices.
The agreement also states that the health of humans, animals, and the planet is closely linked and should lead to shared responsibility, transparency, and cooperation globally.
"We believe that as leaders of the United Nations and international organizations, it is our responsibility to ensure that the world learns the lessons of COVID-19 epidemics," the leaders wrote.
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