SAARC countries to work together to meet the challenge of Coronavirus: PM Modi

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Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has said that SAARC countries must prepare together, act together and succeed together in dealing with the Coronavirus. In his opening remarks at the video conference of all SAARC member countries to chalk out a common strong strategy to fight the virus in the region, Shri Modi said sharing perspectives is most valuable as it cannot be predicted with certainty how the situation will unfold despite best efforts. He said so far SAARC region has fewer than 150 cases but there is a need to remain vigilant.
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi proposed the creation of a COVID 19 emergency fund based on voluntary contribution from SAARC nations.

Shri Modi said India is assembling a Rapid Response Team of doctors and specialists, along with testing kits and other equipment. They will be on stand-by to be placed at SAARC nation’s disposal, if required. Shri Modi said India has set up an Integrated Disease Surveillance Portal to better trace possible virus carriers and the people they contacted. This Disease Surveillance software could be shared with SAARC partners. Prime Minister Shri Modi said, our neighbourhood collaboration should be a model for the world. He also assured that India will do its best for its neighbours.