July 10, 2013 - Ottawa - Finding and treating people with tuberculosis (TB) in vulnerable communities is important to Canadians. Today, the Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister for International Development, reaffirmed Canada’s support to the global fight against tuberculosis during the 23rd meeting of the coordinating board of the Stop TB Partnership, which is the highest strategy-setting body for TB globally—held for the first time in Canada. Minister Fantino accepted an award on behalf of the Government of Canada for its support in the fight against tuberculosis.
“Over the past decade, Canada has been a global leader in the fight against tuberculosis,” said Minister Fantino. “We are forging a future where tuberculosis is a thing of the past and where the most vulnerable can live healthier, safer and fuller lives.
“Thanks to the people of Canada, millions of lives have been saved and people who would otherwise have been forgotten have received quality TB care,” said Dr. Lucica Ditiu, executive secretary of the Stop TB Partnership. “Today, as we reach a critical point in the fight against TB, we recognize this contribution and welcome the Government of Canada’s continued support.”
Canada is a founding donor of the Stop TB Partnership. Through its pathfinding investments in TB REACH and the Global Drug Facility (GDF)—both mechanisms within the Stop TB Partnership—Canada has helped save millions of lives, and other donors have followed suit. Founded in 2001, the Stop TB Partnership's mission is to serve every person who is vulnerable to TB and ensure that high-quality treatment is available to all who need it.
Economic Action Plan 2013 reaffirms Canada's commitment to expanding prevention, care and treatment for those most vulnerable to TB. The new Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development will maintain the mandate of poverty alleviation, and supporting the health of those most in need. Furthermore, the amalgamation leading to this new department will achieve greater efficiency, accountability, and focus to continue to help improve the lives of people in need around the world.
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For more information, media should contact:
Daniel Bezalel Richardsen
Press Secretary to the Minister of International Development
Telephone: 819-953-6238
Email: danielbezalel.richardsen@international.gc.ca
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