In a powerful move to strengthen global health security, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, have entered a groundbreaking partnership aimed at scaling up and sustaining financing for vital health and immunization systems in low-income and lower middle-income countries, reports ITREALMS.
The landmark letter of intent, signed by AIIB President Jin Liqun and Gavi CEO Dr. Sania Nishtar, lays the groundwork for concrete collaboration on strategic investments within AIIB member nations that also qualify for Gavi support.
The alliance will prioritize the co-creation of pioneering financing mechanisms designed to propel investments in health and immunization and fortify overall health systems. The ultimate goal is to empower these nations to achieve improved health outcomes and establish long-term self-financing capabilities. The success of Gavi's model is evident in the 19 countries, including powerhouses like Indonesia and India (now Gavi donors themselves), that have successfully transitioned out of Gavi support over the past quarter-century.
The agreement outlines AIIB’s intention to provide up to USD 1 billion in financing for public-sector health projects. This significant commitment will be strategically complemented by Gavi’s concessional resources, directly responding to the needs and demands of individual countries. These crucial funds will fuel essential investments in strengthening health systems and immunization infrastructure, facilitate the procurement of life-saving vaccines, and support the introduction of high-impact vaccines in middle-income countries. Furthermore, the partnership will offer targeted assistance to nations navigating their transition out of Gavi's direct support.
“Investing in the health of our people is the most fundamental investment we can make for a prosperous future, building stronger communities, more resilient livelihoods, and lasting stability,” stated AIIB President Jin Liqun. “This strategic partnership with Gavi will be instrumental in helping our members gain access to critical, often life-saving, vaccines precisely when they need them most. It underscores AIIB’s unwavering commitment to advancing public health and fostering sustainable social development across Asia and beyond.”
Looking ahead, Gavi and AIIB are committed to exploring cutting-edge financing approaches, including donor liquidity and blended finance mechanisms, to maximize impact. Recognizing the interconnectedness of global challenges, the two organizations will also collaborate on enhancing knowledge development and sharing, specifically examining the crucial links between climate finance, immunization efforts, and resilient health systems investments.
“At a time when the threat of infectious diseases is escalating, ensuring predictable and sustainable financing for countries to build robust immunization and health systems is paramount for our collective well-being and security,” emphasized Gavi CEO Dr. Sania Nishtar. “Innovative partnerships and forward-thinking development financing mechanisms have been central to Gavi’s success in protecting over a billion children. We are thrilled to partner with AIIB, leveraging our combined expertise to deliver even greater impact and empower countries on their journey towards sustainable health.”
As Gavi marks its 25th anniversary and AIIB celebrates its 10th, this strategic alliance arrives at a critical juncture for global health. Building on the proven track record of both organizations in providing innovative, cost-effective, and sustainable support to low-income and lower middle-income countries, this partnership aspires to empower even more nations to achieve lasting self-sufficiency in their immunization and health infrastructure programs, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more resilient world.
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