Thread by @DaveKeating

VP @VDombrovskis unveils expansion of EU's vaccine export mechanism to ensure exports are reciprocal.

“Europe has taken every step to act fairly & responsibly, mindful of our global leadership role, since the start of the pandemic. EU remains biggest global exporter of vaccines"

"If a country of destination which has a large production capacity restricts its own exports of vaccines or vaccine substances, either by law or by other means, it may be appropriate to consider whether exports of vaccines to this country are justified," says Dombrovskis.

"In addition, some countries previously exempted will be included in the scope of the resignation...so as to avoid possible circumvention of the rules"

"Exports to low and middle income countries remain unconditionally exempted"

"The regulation will help us to meet the expectations of EU citizens while maintaining our responsibilities to our partners around the world," says Dombrovskis.

"The most important hing is to stabilise and accelerate the deliveries of vaccines" to the EU.

Health Commissioner @SKyriakidesEU gives an update on viral situation.

She says there are "concerns of a third wave if the situation continues to deteriorate". Without further measures, hospitalisations will increase.

"Bringing the situation under control takes more than public health measures and sacrifices we're asking from citizens," says Kyriakides.

"It requires access to safe and effective vaccines as quickly as possible"

It's complicated, but what the Commission just announced on vaccine exports is hugely significant.

Here's my attempt to break it down: