Text: State Department Hails Gates Foundation Support to Global Health Fund

20 June 2001

Text: State Department Hails Gates Foundation Support to Global Health Fund

Urges others to add their financial support to fight HIV/AIDS

Following is a June 20 State Department statement welcoming the contribution of $100 million by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to support the global fund to combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis.

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U.S. Department of State
Office of the Spokesman

June 20, 2001

Statement by Richard Boucher, Spokesman

Contribution of $100 Million to Global Health Trust Fund by Gates Foundation

The Department of State welcomes the significant commitment of financial resources by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to support the global fund to combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis. This contribution will increase momentum in the international community toward the establishment of a public-private partnership based on the principles and priorities President Bush outlined in his announcement of May 11.

HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis are global challenges that require a global response. Governments, businesses and charitable organizations need to combine their energy, talent and resources to build an integrated approach to addressing these challenges. Organizations such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation are demonstrating leadership on international health issues. The Department calls upon the private sector and governments around the world to add their support to this important global fund.

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