Thread by @DrTedros

The #COVID19 pandemic has reminded us of a simple truth: we are one humanity. Today I was honoured to join the @g20 Health Ministers meeting to express @WHO's gratitude for their leadership and commitment to combat the current crisis & ensure this never happens again.

I had three asks of @g20org health ministers today:
1. Fight #COVID19 with determination, guided by science & evidence
2. Continue to support the global response
3. Work together to increase the production & equitable distribution of essential supplies & remove trade barriers.

I also used the opportunity to echo President @CyrilRamaphosa’s appeal, on behalf of the @_AfricanUnion, to support African countries with stimulus packages and debt relief so they can focus on fighting the #COVID19 pandemic.

I thanked @g20org Health Ministers for their commitment to a coordinated approach to fighting #COVID19, and the G20 Summit’s recent statement of support for @WHO’s role. This solidarity is vital for protecting all people everywhere - especially the most vulnerable.

My thanks to @MinSoliSante for stating France's strong support for @WHO’s leading & coordinating role at this critical time in the fight against #COVID19. This is the time for a united front to stop the virus with strong, stable global coordination. Merci beaucoup 🇫🇷!

Gracias Mexico 🇲🇽 for saluting @WHO’s core leadership role against #COVID19. I also welcome statements from Canada, Germany, France & others on the value of the Solidarity Trial and efforts to coordinate and accelerate R&D on diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines.

I was very moved by the comments of Italy's @MinisteroSalute 🇮🇹 about the country’s enormous efforts to combat #COVID19, including the support and solidarity @WHO has provided during these difficult times. We stand with you and all Italians as you win the fight. Together!

Thank you @GovCanHealth 🇨🇦 for your comprehensive words of support for @WHO & the importance of genuine global coordination to end the #COVID19 pandemic. Glad to hear Canada is implementing WHO’s public health guidance. Together!

The UK's 🇬🇧 staunch support for @WHO and call for all countries to support the second Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan is very welcome. We are as always deeply grateful for your partnership and support, @DHSCgovuk. Thank you!

Danke, merci, grazie & engraziel @BAG_OFSP_UFSP 🇨🇭 for Switzerland's robust support for intl. solidarity in the fight against #COVID19, incl. the central role of @WHO and our experts. We appreciate your call for all countries to provide sustainable support to our organization.

I appreciate @RwandaHealth's description of the extensive partnership between 🇷🇼 & @WHO in constructing resilient, equitable health systems & public health measures to fight #COVID19. This sort of collaboration is happening in many countries & will spell the defeat of the virus.

I appreciate @RwandaHealth's description of the extensive partnership between 🇷🇼 & @WHO in constructing resilient, equitable health systems & public health measures to fight #COVID19. This sort of collaboration is happening in many countries & will spell the defeat of the virus.

.@WHO is committed to leading the work requested by the @g20org leaders, in cooperation with our partners, to assess gaps in global preparedness, and to lay the foundations for the healthier, safer, fairer world we all want. #COVID19