Post by CEPI (Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations)

Last month, CEPI CEO Dr Richard Hatchett visited Tokyo, Japan, to discuss collaborative efforts on epidemic and pandemic preparedness with key government, scientific and industry partners and to reinforce Japan’s central role as a long‑standing and strategic partner in global pandemic preparedness. The visit brought together leaders from across sectors to advance cooperation on vaccine innovation and health security. Dr Hatchett met with senior officials including the Ministers of Health, Finance, Economy and the Prime Minister's Office, as well as members of the Diet members from across the Liberal Democratic, Japan Innovation, and Komeito political parties, to discuss Japan’s continued support for CEPI 3.0. He also engaged with key CEPI partners, including SCARDA (Strategic Center of Biomedical Advanced Vaccine Research and Development), JIHS (Japan Institute of Health Security) and NEC Corporation, highlighting the importance of cross-sector collaboration in advancing vaccine R&D and enabling technologies. As one of CEPI’s largest funders, Japan understands the importance of sustained investment in preparedness — and this visit was an opportunity to reaffirm a shared commitment to strengthening global health security.