World Leaders To Commit $11.7 Billion Against AIDS, Killer Diseases
New York, NY, United States (AHN) – The international community has agreed to commit $11.7 billion to combat HIV/AIDS and other deadly diseases during a summit at the United Nation’s headquarters.
Announcing the commitment on behalf of 40 donor nations, corporations and private foundations, U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said the commitments send a powerful message at a time when governments across the world tighten their finances through spending cuts at home.
“This shows how seriously world leaders want to do the right thing beyond their borders,” Ban said. His comments came during a conference on Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria for 2011 through 2013 in New York City.
“However the demand for funding is likely to out-strip even the impressive commitments today. That means we must continue to mobilize more resources,” Ban added.
Earlier, the Obama administration pledged to contribute a record $4 billion to the fund – an announcement, which had deeply disappointed a non-government organization – Health GAP, which was expecting more from Washington. However, the U.S. State Department said the offer represents a 38 percent rise in Washington’s investment over the preceding three-year period.
“The Obama administration intends to seek $4 billion for the Fund for 2011 through 2013 to continue America’s strong support for this important multilateral partner,” officials said. The department said that pledge would save hundreds of lives by driving necessary reforms and ensuring and making smart and effective investments.
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