Malta has maintained its financial commitment to GAVI, an alliance that works to provide life-saving vaccinations, particularly for children and vulnerable people, the government said Thursday.

At the GAVI Summit held in Brussels in collaboration with the European Commission and the Gates Foundation, Prime Minister Robert Abela described the COVID-19 pandemic as an example that led Europe to cooperate closely, saving countless lives during the outbreak.

Addressing the Summit alongside European leaders, the Maltese Prime Minister stressed that Malta has always advocated for equal access to healthcare services and medicines, regardless of where people live. He explained that during times of geopolitical challenges, which bring uncertainty, inequality in access to medicine increases, making GAVI's mission all the more important.

Prime Minister Robert Abela noted how GAVI's mission has saved millions of children through vaccination against diseases and stated that, as an international community, a collective effort is needed to support this vital work.

He said that through collaboration, we can build healthier societies, more resilient systems and countries are better prepared for future challenges.

He emphasised that while the private sector in the pharmaceutical field has a role to play, it is also the responsibility of governments to provide the support needed to ensure GAVI's continued effectiveness. Prime Minister Abela concluded his address with a clear message in favour of solidarity, to ensure that no one is left behind.