WASHINGTON, DC - On December 1, the global community once again recognizes World AIDS Day and the 33 million people living with HIV/AIDS worldwide. This is also a time to renew our commitment to work together to fight against this epidemic and pay homage to the millions of people who have lost their lives because of it. As a major partner in the U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is fully committed to continue providing prevention, care, and treatment services to those in need.

Since its inception in 2003, PEPFAR has saved millions of lives and has given hope to millions more. Currently, an estimated 4 million men, women, and children in low and middle-income countries have access to life-saving antiretroviral treatment, and more than half of these people are supported by PEPFAR through the American public.

In 2008, the Presidential signing of the Lantos-Hyde Global Leadership Against HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria Reauthorization Act allowed for an additional five years and $48 billion toward helping those in need through programs to address HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria.

With this next phase, PEPFAR is increasing its focus on long-term sustainability and closer relationships with the governments of our partner countries.

By collaborating with nations and working to strengthen health systems, we hope to support country-led efforts to make universal access to HIV prevention, treatment, care, and support services a reality for their citizens.

Through PEPFAR, USAID manages HIV/AIDS programs in virtually every region of the world. We are honored and privileged to have been on the front lines of this epidemic for almost 25 years, shoulder-to-shoulder with people living with HIV/AIDS, and with civil society, implementing partners, and government entities to advance human rights and help fight a disease that kills two million people a year.

This World AIDS Day we remember why we fight. We recognize our dedication and renew our commitment to continue the progress that has already been made. By working together, we have made great strides in the fight against HIV/AIDS.