Japan is accelerating diplomatic efforts focused on offering medical equipment and aid, hoping that its display of long-term commitment to supporting other countries in fighting the coronavirus pandemic will help counter China's attempts to expand its clout through vaccine development and the distribution of medical supplies such as face masks.
As of Aug. 12, the government had agreed with 68 countries to offer medical devices after securing ¥48 billion in coronavirus-related aid expenses in the extra budget for fiscal 2020. It hopes to strengthen its presence as a major donor in the field of public health, officials have said.
"Japan is advocating for and taking the lead in providing support to developing countries with vulnerable health care systems to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus," Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi told a recent news conference.