Maputu, Mozambique -- HHS [U.S. Department of Health and Human Services] Secretary Tommy G. Thompson signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the health minister of Mozambique, an agreement that pledges the United States will work with the ministry over the next five years to improve HIV surveillance systems in the country.
The agreement, which was signed during a meeting Tuesday between Secretary Thompson and Mozambique Health Minister Dr. Francisco Songane, will solidify the nation's relationships with HHS, the Department of State, U.S. Agency for International Development, nongovernmental agencies and private partners.
"The leadership of Mozambique has indicated a strong dedication to addressing the health challenges facing this country, particularly HIV/AIDS," Secretary Thompson said. "I look forward to continuing and expanding our relationship with Mozambique, as well as with nations across Africa."
Secretary Thompson, who also met with Mozambique President Joaquim Chissano on Tuesday, is in the midst of a week-long trip to Africa that includes stops in Mozambique, South Africa, Botswana and Cote d'Ivoire. He is working to strengthen partnerships and strategies to combat HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria, which combined claim 6 million lives each year.
Secretary Thompson's visit builds upon the Bush administration's strong support for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. President Bush's fiscal year 2003 budget includes $100 million from HHS and $100 million from USAID to support the global fund -- bringing the U.S. contribution to $500 million.
In total, the President's budget request for HHS in fiscal year 2003 for HIV/AIDS programs and activities totals $12.9 billion. Overall, the Bush administration proposes spending more than $16 billion in fiscal year 2003 to combat HIV/AIDS at home and abroad.
