Ottawa, Canada — For the first time ever, the issue of AIDS in Aboriginal populations will be discussed in the main conference program at next week’s international HIV and AIDS conference in Washington D.C. This is thanks in part to efforts of the Canadian Government and the Canadian Aboriginal AIDS Network, who have worked together to advance this important issue.

“Including Aboriginal-focused sessions in the AIDS Conference program reinforces our commitment to reduce HIV and AIDS in a population where rates are still far too high,” said Minister Aglukkaq. “I want to congratulate conference organizers for taking this important step.”

“The conference provides a strong platform for HIV and AIDS dialogue and will enable global action and discussion on a range of Aboriginal-related issues,” said Ken Clement, CEO, Canadian Aboriginal AIDS Network. “We appreciate the Minister’s support and leadership in helping raise awareness of these issues.”

The Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health, applauds the organizers of the XIX International AIDS Conference, being held in Washington D.C. next week (July 22 – 27), for ensuring that Aboriginal-focused issues are more prominently featured in this year’s conference program.

The International AIDS Conference is the leading gathering for those working in the field of HIV and AIDS, bringing together over 20,000 delegates representing scientific research, civil society, community, and government from around the world. It provides the opportunity to focus on major issues facing the global response to HIV, to evaluate new scientific developments and knowledge gaps, and to collectively plan a path forward.

The Government of Canada has been an active player in these conferences since their inception in 1985, and will contribute financially to the International AIDS Society to help support the 2012 conference.

Image Courtesy of  Nikola Bilic / Shutterstock.com

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