WHO raises funds for COVID-19 vaccine

The World Health Organization as a strong show of "global solidarity" hailed the billions of euros raised during a teleconference of world leaders to boost development of a coronavirus vaccine.

"This was a powerful and inspiring demonstration of global solidarity," WHO Chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a virtual briefing, of the 7.4 billion euros ($8.1 billion) raised towards the development and distribution of a vaccine for the virus that causes COVID-19.

The teleconference, which was hosted by the European Commission, almost hit the target of 7.5 billion euros for the search for a vaccine to protect against COVID-19, and especially to ensure equitable distribution once one is developed.

"This is an opportunity for the world to come together to confront a common threat, but also to forge a common future," Tedros said.

"In the weeks and months ahead, we will need much more to meet the demand for personal protective equipment, medical oxygen and other essential supplies," he said.