The government of Japan has formally announced its support funding of $10 million grant for the Asia-Europe Foundation's (ASEF) Stockpile Project for strengthening preparedness and response to Covid-19 and other emerging diseases. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) will implement the project across five ASEM countries: the Philippines, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Malaysia and Pakistan.

This significant initiative will facilitate the procurement and distribution of essential medical equipment and supplies, like pulse-oximeters, oxygen concentrators, cold-chain equipment for vaccines and other medical devices, Covid-19 rapid testing kits, personal protective equipment, and medicines.