Israel "Interested in purchasing Russian COVID vaccine... Will negotiate once safety is confirmed"

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] Israeli health authorities have stated that they are willing to negotiate the purchase of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccine developed and approved by the Russian government, provided its safety is guaranteed. The Russian government explained that, regardless of safety concerns raised by Western countries, purchase requests have been received from countries in Latin America, the Middle East, and Asia.

According to Russia's TASS news agency, on the 11th (local time), Yuli Edelstein, Israel's Minister of Health, said at a press conference, "We have decided to hold talks with the Gamaleya Research Institute, which developed the Russian vaccine," and added, "If safety is confirmed, we are willing to engage in talks regarding vaccine purchase." Minister Edelstein explained, "We are carefully monitoring all news related to the vaccine and thoroughly reviewing all publications," and noted, "Since no vaccine worldwide has yet passed all clinical stages, we do not expect to be able to use the vaccine immediately tomorrow."

Earlier that day, Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized at a video cabinet meeting, "Russia has approved the world's first vaccine," and added, "One of my daughters has also been vaccinated, and her health condition is good." However, the vaccine was approved immediately after only Phase 1 clinical trials involving 38 volunteers on June 18, which has intensified safety concerns. Alex Azar, U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, expressed concerns about the safety of the Russian vaccine in an interview with ABC News, stating, "What matters in vaccine development is not being first, but transparent data on safety and efficacy."

Nevertheless, Russian authorities emphasize the efficacy and safety of the vaccine, stating that pre-orders have been received from several countries. On the same day, Kirill Dmitriev, CEO of the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF), stressed, "The vaccine has received pre-orders for over 1 billion breakthrough doses from 20 countries," and added, "Numerous contracts have already been finalized, with countries in Latin America, the Middle East, and Asia showing the most interest in purchasing."