Today global leaders will meet in a virtual conference as part of the Global Vaccine Summit hosted by the United Kingdom. Their aim is to mobilise at least US$ 7.4 billion in additional resources for Gavi – The Vaccine Alliance to protect the next generation with vaccines, reduce disease inequality and create a healthier, safer and more prosperous world.

We have all seen the devastating effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on our jobs, our way of life and our families. Too many personal tragedies are contained within the statistics. Each affected nation has risen to the terrible challenge posed by the virus, finding ways to protect their people and to safeguard their future. I commend the Maltese Government and the people of these islands for the great strides they have taken to tackle the pandemic. As the restrictions are lifted in the coming weeks we may see a welcome return to something resembling normality. We must continue to be vigilant for a while longer, of course, both here and in my own country, where we are having to make similar difficult judgements.

Ultimately, defeating the pandemic globally must be done at a multinational level, pooling our resources and expertise and helping those less fortunate than ourselves. Across the globe, scientists and medical professionals have been working together to find a way to defeat this virus. We have a duty to work together in the best interest of people all around the world. It is for this reason that the UK has committed £313m for the development of new vaccines, treatments and tests and £764 million of UK aid to end the coronavirus pandemic as quickly as possible.

By preventing the virus from spreading in the poorest countries, we will save millions of lives around the world and reduce the risk of future waves of infection. With this in mind, the UK's pledge to Gavi will help support the delivery of life-saving vaccinations in sixty eight countries and will be integral to the distribution of a coronavirus vaccine once it is developed.

No single country can fully tackle Covid-19 alone. Together, pitching all our efforts and resources, we can beat the pandemic by developing successful vaccines and distributing them to all who need it. This is our duty towards present and future generations and it is why the UK is hosting the summit today.