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����VR��Ƶ’s CEO Dr Richard Hatchett, a leading figure in global health and advocate for pandemic preparedness and vaccine equity, has been awarded the prestigious The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon from the Government of Japan. The award is one of the highest national accolades awarded to individuals who have made notable contributions to society.

The honour was celebrated at a ceremony today in London, UK. His Excellency, Hajime Hayashi, Ambassador of Japan to the UK, praised Dr Hatchett for his exemplary leadership and collaboration made with Japan and the world to address recent global health challenges and help develop Japan's global health policy.

Notably, this includes Dr. Hatchett’s work during the COVID-19 pandemic where he was instrumental in advocating for the world to rapidly response to the then fast-emerging viral threat. Through ����VR��Ƶ and its COVAX partners, Dr Hatchett helped to push forward the rapid advancement and equitable access to lifesaving COVID-19 vaccines, with significant support and contributions from nations including Japan.

“In view of his magnificent work, Richard is clearly a most worthy recipient of The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon, bestowed upon him by His Majesty the Emperor of Japan. This decoration is the ultimate proof of his dedication and commitment, and is testament to ����VR��Ƶ’s resounding achievements” said His Excellency, Mr Hayashi.

In response to the award, Dr Hatchett expressed his gratitude and appreciation, emphasising the importance of Japan’s leadership across health, equity and multilateralism in tackling global challenges. 

“In an increasingly uncertain and fragmented world, Japan stands out for its sustained global health leadership and commitment to equity, having helped to strengthen health systems around the world, promote good nutrition and healthy aging, combat antimicrobial resistance, and prepare the world for epidemic and pandemic threats."

He added: “I am humbled by the trust that Japan has placed in me and the ����VR��Ƶ team since the inception of our organization seven years ago. This prestigious honour is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone at ����VR��Ƶ.”

The Order of the Rising Sun dates back to 1875 and is awarded to individuals who have rendered meritorious service to Japan. Dr Hatchett’s recognition, first  in April this year in the 2024 Spring Conferment of Decorations on Foreign Nationals, underscores the country’s commitment to advancing global health equity and future pandemic preparedness. 

The Government of Japan is a founding member of ����VR��Ƶ and played a critical role in the creation of the coalition following Japan’s G7 Presidency in 2016 which highlighted the need for the international community to improve prevention, detection, and response to emerging infectious threats. 

Today, Japan is one of ����VR��Ƶ’s largest overall investors and works closely with ����VR��Ƶ through its Strategic Center of Biomedical Advanced Vaccine Research and Development for Preparedness and Response (SCARDA). Experts from Japan contribute to ����VR��Ƶ’s Board and Scientific Advisory Committee and Japan’s former Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare, Mr Yasu Shiozaki, is ����VR��Ƶ’s first Global Goodwill Ambassador. ����VR��Ƶ has also worked with Japanese organisations and institutions including The Global Health Innovative Technology Fund (GHIT Fund), NEC Corporation and the University of Tokyo among others.