Presidential Office thanks Japan for third donation of COVID-19 vaccines
In response to the arrival of a third shipment of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccines donated by Japan, Presidential Office Spokesperson Xavier Chang (張惇涵) said the Presidential Office is again sincerely grateful to the Japanese government for its timely assistance, and noted that this shipment of approximately 1 million doses, which arrived in Taiwan on the afternoon of July 15, has brought the total number of doses donated to Taiwan by the Japanese government to over 3.3 million. Spokesperson Chang added that the Taiwanese people have been deeply touched by these generous donations.
Spokesperson Chang stated that the second batch of doses donated by the Japanese government will soon be distributed through our vaccination program, with the third batch of doses to be added directly after inspections are completed. These "friendship vaccines" from the Japanese government are helping our efforts to increase Taiwan's vaccination coverage and protect the people of Taiwan against infection, serving to deepen the friendship between Taiwan and Japan. Based on this firm foundation, both countries will continue to strengthen our cooperative partnership in all areas.
Spokesperson Chang said that President Tsai once again expressed gratitude to the Japanese government for its assistance, praised our diplomats for their efforts, and thanked everyone who helped facilitate this donation. Spokesperson Chang conveyed President Tsai's belief that our countries' ability to cooperate and provide mutual assistance while facing the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic reflects the staunch friendship between Taiwan and Japan.
Spokesperson Chang added that President Tsai encourages our athletes as they strive for top honors in the upcoming Tokyo Olympics, and hopes that the games will be a great success, giving outstanding athletes from around the world an opportunity to show humanity's determination to fight this virus together.