Prime Minister Justin Trudeau joined global partners to launch the Coronavirus Global response. The fundraising initiative aims to raise $8 billion (USD) to aid researchers in the search for ways to develop tests, treatments, and protections against COVID-19.
“None of us is immune to the effects of COVID-19, and none of us can beat the virus alone. Only by protecting each other can we protect ourselves. Canada is ready to help lead a coordinated global response which will contribute to overcoming the pandemic. Together, we will win,” Trudeau said. Canada has so far contributed $850 million to support the fundraising efforts including:
- Mobilize Canadian researchers’ and life sciences companies’ coronavirus research and development of medical countermeasures;
- Support accelerated vaccine development, including through the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations and other partners;
- Find a safe and effective treatment for COVID-19 through the World Health Organization (WHO) Solidarity Trial;
- Coordinate a COVID-19 viral and host genome sequencing effort across Canada;
- Help provide COVID-19 diagnostic support to more than 20 partner countries; and
- Create strategies to tackle misinformation, stigma, and fear.
The announcement was made this morning at an online global conference with the European Union, Britain, Norway, Japan, and Saudi Arabia. The CBC reports that the United States was not part of the event.
