The coronavirus pandemic means that this year’s general assembly is a work from home production for the first time in its history. While we all are still waiting to get the vaccine, the wait for UN staff is over!
Vladimir Putin said in a pre-recorded speech from Moscow, “Anyone of us could face this dangerous virus. The virus has not spared the staff of the United Nations, its headquarters and regional entities.” Putin announced the vaccine to brought fanfare last month and said his own daughter is among those who have taken it.
Putin said that Russia is ready to offer the necessary qualified health and vaccine for free to the volunteers for vaccination like the employees of the organisation and its subsidiaries.
Tuesday’s offer was on popular demand as some UN colleagues had asked about it. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric thanked president Putin for his generous offer.
Talking about the safety of the vaccine, it prompted an antibody response in all 40 people who were tested in the second phase of the study within 3 weeks. WHO appreciated Russia’s efforts in developing a vaccine against coronavirus, Sputnik V calling it ‘safe and effective’.
The vaccine has been defended by the Russian officials at the world stage as governments race to ensure access to a vaccine for their populations.
