EU: AstraZeneca must honour contracts before exporting vaccine outside Europe

Taoiseach and other EU leaders hear that Covid-19 doses made in member states should remain within the Union — at least until the company can fully meet its commitments

Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said world supply chains must remain intact for vaccine production, but that AstraZeneca must honour its contract with EU member states before it can again engage in exporting vaccines. Picture: Stephanie Lecocq/AP

The European Union will ensure coronavirus vaccines produced by AstraZeneca within the Union stay in Europe until the company fulfils its commitments.

Leaders from member states, including Taoiseach Micheál Martin met on Thursday to discuss ongoing issues with Covid-19 vaccine supply, specifically AstraZeneca.