March 08, Colombo (LNW): The Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI) has praised Sri Lanka’s National Immunization Programme, recognizing its significant achievements. During a meeting with Health and Industries Minister Dr. Ramesh Pathirana at the Health Ministry, GAVI’s Director of Middle-Income Countries, Adriana Jimenez Cuen, and Senior Manager for Strategic Partnerships, Middle-Income Countries, Sophie La Vincent, shared insights into their organization’s support for Sri Lanka’s vaccination efforts.
GAVI has been actively involved in providing free vaccines for the children’s vaccination program in Sri Lanka since 2003. Additionally, the alliance has played a crucial role in supplying vaccines at subsidized prices since 2008. Minister Dr. Ramesh Pathirana expressed deep appreciation for GAVI’s contributions, emphasizing the positive impact on suppressing vaccine-preventable diseases in the country.
Highlighting the outstanding level of Sri Lanka’s national vaccination program, Minister Pathirana mentioned that the World Health Organization has recognized the country for providing excellent health services at a low cost. He extended gratitude for GAVI’s support in maintaining the free health service in Sri Lanka and emphasized seeking ongoing assistance when needed.
The GAVI representatives affirmed their commitment to facilitating equitable access to vaccines for preventable diseases globally. During their two-day visit to Sri Lanka, the focus will be on strengthening existing relations and enhancing monitoring measures for vaccine storage and cold storage. Additional Secretary (Public Health) of the Health Ministry, Dr. Lakshmi Somatunga, also participated in the meeting, reinforcing the collaboration between GAVI and Sri Lanka.
