COVID-19 New International Cooperation TF 2nd Private Advisory Meeting... Discussion on Health and Development Cooperation in the COVID-19 Era

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Cheol-young] The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on the 3rd that it held the 2nd private advisory meeting of the New International Cooperation Task Force (TF) on COVID-19 under the theme "New International Cooperation in the Era of COVID-19: Health and Development Cooperation."

Minister Kang Kyung-wha stated, "In South Korea's response to the novel coronavirus COVID-19, trust between the government and the public and the opinions of experts are important," and requested, "to the attending advisory members, please provide suggestions on ways to contribute to the sustainable development of the international community while strengthening South Korea's diplomatic position as a middle power in the COVID-19 era."

Additionally, the Ministry introduced its multifaceted efforts in response to COVID-19, including support for the return of overseas Koreans, support for international vaccine development efforts, and assistance to developing countries in their COVID-19 response.

At this meeting, nine private experts in the fields of health, medical care, and development cooperation attended and presented on topics such as the current status of international health and medical cooperation in the COVID-19 era, the post-COVID-19 world order and international development cooperation policy directions, and prospects for quarantine policies and international cooperation strategies, followed by in-depth discussions.

The participants anticipated that the COVID-19 situation would not end in the short term and proposed measures including the establishment of a comprehensive government-wide master plan for long-term response and tailored responses based on regional approach strategies (regional platform establishment) rather than unilateral transfer of South Korea’s experience, considering the differing COVID-19 response conditions of each country.

They also emphasized the need for more active efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) during the COVID-19 situation, South Korea’s constructive role in improving international health governance, and the importance of public participation and open communication.

An official from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs explained, "In the process of promoting foreign policy to prepare for the COVID-19 era and beyond, we plan to reflect the opinions of various experts with expertise and experience in each field."