McCain Statement on World AIDS Day

Statement By John McCain On World AIDS Day

U.S. Senator John McCain today issued the following statement on World AIDS Day: "Today we offer our thoughts and prayers to the over 33 million people around the world that struggle to live each day with HIV/AIDS, and we mourn the millions of lives lost to the deadly virus. Today is a day to give comfort, and recognize the caregivers, and over 40 million AIDS orphans on this planet whose lives have been forever altered by this killer that respects no international or economic borders. Each and every life lost, infected and impacted by HIV/AIDS, is a loss to our common humanity. "America's response to this crisis reflects the values and respect for life, upon which this nation was founded. Today is a call to action to roll-back the scourge of HIV and save lives. It's critical that we face this crisis head-on, which is why I have consistently supported the most aggressive global AIDS program in the history of this pandemic, the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). Afflicted nations with whom we partner to fight this disease must also know that we expect a level of governance, transparency and effectiveness from them in order to make the fullest use of AIDS assistance so we can make the greatest impact on people's lives. Our commitment must be sustained, and our nation must always be faithful to those at home and abroad as they cope with the ravages of HIV/AIDS. "