Weltnachrichten – UK – Vaccine is not a British victory, says the German ambassador

Germany’s top diplomat in the UK has denied claim that the Pfizer coronavirus vaccine launch is a UK victory, calling it an « international effort ».

Ambassador Andreas Michaelis pointed out that the German company BioNTech played a « decisive » role in the development of the jab.

It came after World Health Organization Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus confirmed that the UK was the first country to approve the Pfizer / BioNTech vaccine.

Mr Michaelis spoke up on Wednesday after Secretary of Commerce Alok Sharma welcomed Britain as the first to sign a contract.

Mr Sharma said, “For years to come, we will remember that moment when Britain led the indictment of humanity against this disease. ”

The comments seemed to anger Ambassador Michaelis, who tweeted, “Why is it so difficult to see this important step forward as a major international effort and success?.

“Although the German company BioNTech has made a decisive contribution, it is European and transatlantic. ”

Former Labor Minister Lord Adonis agreed, adding: “Well said, Mr. Ambassador. So refreshing you hear the voice of European cooperation rather than the Brexiter voice of xenophobia and petty nationalism. ”

According to Wednesday’s announcement, there will be around 800 in the UK starting next week. 000 doses of the Pfizer vaccine will be available, Health Secretary Matt Hancock said.

Nursing home residents and carers will be the first to be vaccinated, the government confirmed. Studies have shown that the shock is 95 percent effective and works in all age groups.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the announcement was « fantastic » news, tweeting, « It’s vaccine protection that ultimately allows us to regain our lives and get the economy going again. « 

Alok Sharma, Great Britain, vaccine, Pfizer