Statements and Webcast
Egypt
H.E. Dr. Ahmed Mohamed Abdel Halim, Personal Representative of the President of the Military Supreme Council
9 June 2011
- Statement: English (Check against delivery)
Statement Summary
AHMED MOHAMED ABDEL HALIM (Egypt) said the elimination of HIV infection required that special attention be given to strengthening national capacities, particularly of African States, to take into account the specific community and social aspects of each State in order to enhance efforts for prevention. That would also strengthen the ability to implement national awareness campaigns to address harmful traditional practices, reduce risk behaviour and encourage responsible practices with regard to sexual activity.
He said the international community had a responsibility, not only to provide the necessary financial resources, but to find radical solutions to the problems of trade-related intellectual property, especially regarding medicine and vaccines. The spread of HIV often was caused by poverty and underdevelopment, and therefore successful elimination of the infection required a successful sustainable development process where support was given to develop infrastructure and economic, educational and social systems. The transfer of knowledge and technology also was crucial in that effort. Also instrumental to curb the spread of infection was combating illicit drug trafficking, decreasing gender inequalities and working to eliminate all forms of violence against and exploitation of women.
Source: GA/11090