Statements and Webcast
Republic of Korea
H.E. Mr. In-kook Park, Permanent Representative
10 June 2011
- Statement: English (Check against delivery)
Statement Summary
PARK IN-KOOK ( Republic of Korea), citing gains, said there had been a visible reduction in HIV incidence and mortality, as well as an overall promotion of the human rights and dignity of those living with HIV. Nevertheless, “this progress is not enough”: more than 7,000 people were infected worldwide with the HIV virus every day. Such challenges should be considered in the context of undermining development and human rights. Voicing support for zero new infections, zero discrimination and zero AIDS-related deaths, he said meeting those aims could contribute to the overall success of the Millennium Development Goals.
Sharing ideas on how stakeholders could have an impact, he said entire societies must participate in the fight against AIDS, without stigma or discrimination. It was essential to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS, based on accurate information, especially by using social networking services to target young people. Universal access to medical services was crucial to reduce the risk of transmission. While more than 6 million people had received antiretroviral treatment, the compliance rate was low and robust health systems were needed to ensure the effective care of HIV-positive persons. A country with low HIV-prevalence, the Republic of Korea would host the Tenth International Conference on AIDS in Asia and the Pacific, in August.
Source: GA/11093