Foreign ministers of the Group of Seven nations agreed to take the lead in supporting developing countries that are concerned about the spread of the new coronavirus, during a teleconference held on Wednesday night. They also confirmed that the G7 nations will hold talks to secure at least minimum means of transportation for their nationals abroad to return home.
"Regarding the new coronavirus, which is an urgent issue for the international community, we confirmed that we will cooperate," Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi told reporters after the meeting.
At the meeting, ministers discussed the possibility that the spread of coronavirus infections could worsen in Southeast Asia, Africa and Latin America, where medical supplies are scarce, and confirmed the importance of the G7 working together to provide support to those countries. They also agreed to promote international cooperation in the joint development of drugs and vaccines.
They also agreed to hold working-level talks to secure the minimum necessary means of transportation because many travelers are unable to return to their home countries due to border closures and the suspension of international flights.
Motegi said that the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics will be postponed for about a year, a move supported by the other countries.
Courtesy of the Foreign Affairs Ministry
Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi participates in a teleconference with foreign ministers of the Group of Seven nations.
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