MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
I will affirm Australia's support for the UN Declaration of Commitment
on HIV/AIDS to the United Nations General Assembly Plenary on HIV/AIDS in New
York tonight.
The incidence of HIV/AIDS in our region is of very serious concern. Already
there are more than 7.2 million people living with the disease in the Asia
Pacific. Last year, about 3000 people were infected each day with the
virus.
Small island countries of the South Pacific are now confronting the disease,
with AIDS and related diseases the leading cause of death in Port Moresby
General Hospital.
Without leadership the fight against HIV/AIDS cannot be won.
Australia has played a leading role in regional efforts to contain the
virus. In particular, it has been a driving force behind the Asia Pacific
Leadership Forum on HIV/AIDS and Development. The Forum has given leaders the
opportunity to work together on measures to stop the spread of the disease.
In 2000, Australia committed $200 million over six years towards a Global
AIDS initiative, with $85 million already spent on activities aimed at reducing
HIV infections. We are a leading donor in East Asia and the Pacific in terms of
commitment and expenditure.
Next year, we will review our HIV/AIDS and development policy to take into
account shifts in the nature of the epidemic and its impact.
Although the task ahead is formidable, real advance is possible and
Australia will continue to work to build momentum in the global response to the
HIV/AIDS pandemic.
Media contacts:
Andrew Park (Minister's office) 02 6277 7500 or 0418 253 285
Jo Elsom (AusAID) 02 6206 4960