[ad_1]
“We are working together with the EU to further expand our production capacities and to be able to provide additional doses of vaccines,” says Biontech chief Ugur Sahin.
The German manufacturer Biontech wants to deliver more corona vaccine than expected to the European Union. The company is “in advanced discussions about whether and how we can provide more doses of vaccines from Europe for Europe this year,” company head Ugur Sahin told the German Press Agency on Friday. “Due to the current high number of infections, a rapid supply of vaccines is particularly important,” Sahin added.
“We are working with the EU to further expand our production capacities and provide additional doses of vaccine.” Sahin pointed out that this week an agreement had been reached with the EU Commission to deliver another 100 million doses of vaccine. An option already agreed in the EU framework agreement was drawn: initially 200 million doses of the Biontech vaccine were firmly ordered, with the option to purchase an additional 100 million units. This extension was contractually agreed a few days ago after the EU states announced the corresponding need.
When asked, a company spokeswoman would not say how quickly a contract for additional deliveries could be finalized and what quantities are involved. The EU Commission also only spoke of the fact that there would be “advanced talks” about new deliveries in 2021.
Slowly ordering vaccines
Sahin had previously said in the German news magazine “Der Spiegel” about the strategy of the EU Commission: “Many other companies were supposed to present vaccines. Apparently, the impression was: we will have enough, it will not be so bad, and We have it under control. I was surprised. ” Until now, only Biontech has been approved for the European market. The Biontech founder explained to dpa: “The EU strategy of securing various vaccines is understandable and sensible. Our common interest is to provide vaccines to people who want them.”
(WHAT / dpa)
