64 Heads of Missions in India leave for Hyderabad, where they are scheduled to visit Bharat Biotech and Biological E. Ltd, in continuation of the briefing by Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The facilities are developing COVID-19 vaccine.
Meanwhile, India’s central drug regulator will review the applications of Pfizer, Serum Institute of India and Bharat Biotech — the three pharma companies that have sought emergency use authorisation for their Covid-19 vaccine candidates.
The Indian arm of US pharmaceutical giant Pfizer had on December 4 sought approval for its vaccine. On December 6, Pune’s Serum Institute of India sought a nod for its Oxford Covid-19 vaccine. Subsequently, Bharat Biotech applied for the same on December 7.
The visit of the Foreign Heads of Missions (HoMs) in India was organised in continuation of the COVID-19 briefing by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on November 6.
The delegation was briefed about Bharat Biotech’s vaccine development program Dr. Krishna Ella, Chairman and Managing Director, who is spearheading the COVAXIN research, development, clinical ls and production teams. He explained Bharat Biotech’s Research process, manufacturing capabilities, and expertise, following which the dignitaries had virtual and physical tours of the facility.
The first batch of diplomats included envoys from Australia, Denmark, Iran, Bhutan, Brazil, Myanmar, Slovenia, Trinidad & Tobago, South Korea, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, among others.
Speaking on the occasion, Suchitra Ella, Joint Managing Director of Bharat Biotech said, “The development and clinical evaluation of Covaxin marks a significant milestone for novel vaccinology in India. Covaxin has garnered interest from several countries worldwide for supplies and introduction. It is an honour to have with us today all the distinguished ambassadors of various countries. It not only makes us proud but also reminds us that the world is looking up to India in the common fight against the deadly pandemic.”
