Covid: US backs waiver on vaccine patents to boost supply
World 03:22 PM - 2021-05-06Photo Credit: Reuters
The US has thrown its support behind a move at the World Trade Organization (WTO) to temporarily lift patent protection for coronavirus vaccines.
India and South Africa proposed the plan, which they said would increase vaccine production around the world.
But drugs manufacturers argue it may not have the desired effect.
US Trade Representative Katherine Tai said that "extraordinary times call for extraordinary measures".
Ms Tai said the US would now embark on negotiations at the WTO to try to secure the waiver, but warned this could take time.
One hundred of the WTO's 164 states are said to be in favour, and a panel on intellectual property is expected to discuss the issue next month.
PUKmedia / BBC
More news
-
German Forces Commander Ended his Mission at Mam Jalal's Grave
12:28 PM - 2024-04-23 -
Golden Bla Awards Ceremony Takes Place in Sulaymaniyah
11:32 AM - 2024-04-23 -
PUK Official: PUK is Committed to Holding Elections on Time
11:04 AM - 2024-04-23 -
Turkish President Meets Kurdish Officials in Erbil
10:42 AM - 2024-04-23