On February17, 2022, the Government of Mexico delivered 2000 doses of AstraZeneca COVID -19 vaccines to the Government and people of Dominica. The vaccines arrived at the Douglas Charles Airport on a Mexican Air Force Plane and was received by the Ministry of Health, Wellness and New Health Investment.
On this occasion, the Executive Director of AMEXCID, Dr. Laura Elena Carrillo Cubillas, the Representative of the Mexican Government stated,” I hope that the vaccines will further contribute to save Dominican lives and to help in the transition to normalcy in Dominica.” She further stated that “The President and people of Mexico pledge to continue to promote the strongest collaboration with Dominica and the other Caribbean countries. We can always be friends you can rely on.”
Since the countries established Bi-Lateral Relations 43 years ago, Dr. Laura Elena Carrillo Cubillas, noted,” Our cooperation has always taken an important role in responding to emergencies and natural disasters such as hurricanes and tropical storms. Today, we take a further step to continue collaborating in response to his dreadful pandemic which is severely affecting the well-being of the peoples of our countries.”
“Mexico has expressed in forums on several occasions that is crucial to assure, a fair and inclusive access to COVID -19 vaccines for all developing countries.”
The Mexican Government Representative reiterated that the delivery of the vaccines to Dominica has significant meaning to Mexico.” It is a sincere expression of deepest friendship between our countries. It is our wish that Mexico and Dominica continue to work together towards the sustainable recovery of our economies as well as to keep on addressing the most common challenges for both our nations and those of the region.”
In accepting the vaccine donation, the Acting Minister for Health Wellness and New Health Investment, the Hon Kent Edwards indicated that Dominica has made COVID – 19 vaccines available and accessible at no cost to its citizens. “At present we have made available various types of COVID -19 vaccines for use in Dominica. These include AstraZeneca, Sinopharm, Pfizer and Moderna . Presently, we are in discussion with the Government of Cuba to sourcing the Cuban Vaccine.”
Hon Edwards further stated, “The donation comes at an important time when the vaccination booster is now being offered to our people. I express thanks to the Government and people of Mexico and look forward in continuing the relationship between the two countries.” The Ministry remains committed in providing quality healthcare to all citizens and will continue to collaborate with friendly governments, NGOs and other agencies who are willing to assist our country.” he said.
The Acting Health Minister, further encouraged the unvaccinated to reconsider their decisions. He said, “Look at the benefits versus the risks and make an informed decision. A decision that will positively impact yourselves, your families and communities.”
Since the beginning of the pandemic, Dominica has received vaccines from India, China, the United States and Mexico and from the Pan American Health Organization- PAHO, channeled through the COVAX facility.
