Several Indo-Pacific nations on Friday held a teleconference to exchange their assessments about the coronavirus pandemic and discuss ways to work in synergy to combat the global menace.
Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla took part in a US-initiated teleconference during which he briefed the participants on the proactive steps taken by India to counter the pandemic.
The telephonic conference call, initiated by US Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun for discussions among some Indo-Pacific nations on issues related to countering COVID-19, also included senior representatives from Australia, South Korea, Vietnam, New Zealand, and Japan, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement. The participants shared their assessments of the current situation with respect to COVID-19, and discussed ways to synergise their efforts to counter its spread, the MEA said.
"Foreign Secretary Shringla briefed the participants on the proactive steps taken by India both nationally and in the region under the prime minister's leadership," it said.
Shringla conveyed India's desire to share its perspectives with partners in the region and to work together with others.
The participants are expected to continue the conference call on a weekly basis, covering issues like cooperation on vaccine development, challenges of stranded citizens, assistance to countries in need and mitigating the impact on the global economy, the statement said