The fight against the COVID-19 pandemic is a global challenge. International cooperation and global solidarity are key to stop the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus from spreading. Since the COVID-19 outbreak in 2020, Poland has demonstrated solidarity by providing assistance to countries in need. We send teams of doctors, as well as medical and personal protective equipment. We also carry out development projects which aim at reducing negative effects brought about by the pandemic.

An equal and safe access to vaccination is essential in the daily fight against the pandemic. Unfortunately, many countries in the world are still struggling with vaccine shortages. Since it is in our common interest to increase the global vaccination, Poland has decided to share its vaccine supplies with its foreign partners in need. Uzbekistan is another country we are supporting in the vaccination programme.

The vaccine donation to Uzbekistan also proves how close our bilateral relations are, which was also demonstrated by our countries’ recent cooperation during the evacuation from Afghanistan. As a result of the operation, carried out at the end of August, over 1,200 persons (including six Polish nationals) were safely evacuated thanks to the support and kindness of our Uzbek partners. The evacuated persons were transported from Kabul to Navoi in Uzbekistan on board Polish military planes which operated shuttle flights and then to Poland on board LOT Polish Airlines aircraft. Collaboration between Uzbekistan and Poland during this mission is an important sign of international solidarity in a crisis situation.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Press Office

photo: MFA