30 November 2007

World AIDS Day 2007 - Statement by Secretary Condoleezza Rice

Statement by Secretary Condoleezza Rice
World AIDS Day 2007
Washington, DC

The HIV/AIDS pandemic is one of the worst tragedies the world has seen. On World AIDS Day we remember the more than 20 million people who have died from AIDS and reaffirm our support for the over 33 million people who are currently living with HIV. It is also important to recognize all of the dedicated men and women around the world working to prevent new HIV/AIDS infections, treat those people living with the disease, and care for the men, women, and especially children who are affected by this pandemic.

Recognizing that HIV/AIDS is a global health crisis requiring immediate action, President George W. Bush and a bipartisan Congress launched the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, or PEPFAR, the largest public health initiative ever undertaken against a single disease. PEPFAR supports concerned and active citizens in nations affected by HIV/AIDS as they lead their own fight against HIV/AIDS.The American people are privileged to be working hand in hand with the people of the world – including governments, non-governmental organizations such as faith- and community-based organizations, and the private sector – to build systems and to empower individuals, communities, and nations to tackle HIV/AIDS. PEPFAR is rooted in the recognition that prevention, treatment, and care are all required to turn the tide against HIV/AIDS; no single component by itself will be enough.

The fight against HIV/AIDS is being won, day by day, in communities around the world. The American people will continue to stand in partnership with all who work to defeat this disease.

2007/1067

Released on November 30, 2007