Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with Bill and Melinda Gates to discuss the latest developments regarding the COVID-19 pandemic.
Prime Minister Trudeau thanked Bill and Melinda Gates for their leadership, and for the strong support of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in mobilizing expertise and funding as part of the global response to COVID-19.
They spoke about the need for strong international coordination in response to the pandemic, including through close collaboration among government, private sector, civil society, and philanthropic actors.
Discussions focused on ways to accelerate the development of diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines, and to ensure equitable access to them around the world. They welcomed the international pledging effort starting on May 4 to promote cooperation on urgent efforts toward these goals.
They also agreed to maintain a strong focus on gender equality, recognizing how COVID-19 is making existing inequalities in many countries worse.
COVID-19 is a rapidly evolving global challenge. The Government of Canada is working closely with local, provincial, territorial, and international partners to minimize its health, economic, and social impacts in Canada and around the world.
Associated links
- Canada’s support for international efforts to fight the COVID-19 pandemic
- Prime Minister announces new support for COVID-19 medical research and vaccine development
- Prime Minister announces further support to help Canadians in need
- Prime Minister announces support for vulnerable Canadians affected by COVID‑19