The Trump administration has pledged $812 million (AED 2.98 billion) to boost the US manufacturing of medicines needed to treat the coronavirus.
It's aimed to end dependence on other countries, and boost their own supply chain.
The four-year contract, worth $354 million, which has been awarded to Virginia-based Phlow Corp can be extended to a total of $812 million over 10 years.
It will develop essential drugs and not vaccines, officials explained.
"For far too long, we've relied on foreign manufacturing and supply chains for our most important medicines and active pharmaceutical ingredients while placing America's health, safety, and national security at grave risk," Peter Navarro, director of the White House Office of Trade and Manufacturing Policy, said in a statement.
Nepal to rebuild early-warning system on China border after deadly flood, sources say
Kuwait air defences deal with Iranian missile, drone attacks
Spain's PM Sanchez says no evidence Morocco orchestrated Ceuta border surge
Two Palestinian teens killed in West Bank raid by Israeli settlers, army
Latest Indonesian free meal poisoning outbreaks affect 800, lawmaker says
Chinese students marooned in floods unleashed by Typhoon Saudel's rains
US and Iran exchange attacks as lull in war appears over
Malta court clears businessman over murder of investigative journalist
