Coronavirus crisis: India to export hydroxychloroquine to 25 countries

India has approved requests of about 25 countries to export hydroxychloroquine. The decision was taken after comprehensive stock-taking was done. The approval ranges from commercial orders to aid.

The clearance to export for 25 countries also includes paracetamol, other than hydroxychloroquine.

WION had on Sunday reported that India got requests from 30 countries for the drug termed as a game-changer by the American govt, though the medical community still doesn't have a consensus regarding it.

The requests to India not only came via diplomatic channels but also the world leaders who personally called Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 

In last 24 hours, US President Donald Trump and Brazilain President Jair M. Bolsonaro have thanked India for the approval of requests.

US President in a tweet said, "Extraordinary times require even closer cooperation between friends."

Thanking "India and the Indian people" for the decision on HCQ he said, "Will not be forgotten! Thank you, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for your strong leadership in helping not just India, but humanity, in this fight!"

Brazilian President in an address to the nation said, "We have more good news. As an outcome of my direct conversation with Prime Minister of India, we will receive, by Saturday, raw materials to continue our production of Hydroxychloroquine so that we can treat patients of COVID-19 as well as of Lupus, Malaria, and Arthritis."

He further added," I thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the people of India for such timely help to the people of Brazil"

The UK also thanked India for paracetamol export.

The British acting high commissioner Jan Thompson in a tweet said," Thank you Narendra Modi and the Government of India for approving the export of paracetamol to the UK. Global cooperation is critical in the fight against #COVID19. UK and India have track record of working together as a #ForceforGood tackling global challenges."