Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew recently urged global leaders at the 79th UN General Assembly session to reaffirm their commitments. He emphasized the need for collective action in the fight against the HIV/AIDS threat during a side event.
UNAIDS organized this event focused on the theme “Revitalized Multilateralism: Public Statement for World AIDS Day: Fighting AIDS Together – Rededicating Ourselves to the Cause.”
Prime Minister Dr. Drew, during the session, addressed that St Kitt and Nevis continued efforts to fight against HIV/AIDS. He shared the results of the St. Kitts and Nevis National HIV/AIDS program, marking its successes.
Notably, he pointed to achieving the goal of the absence of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis in 2017, with the current report affirming this status. He continued to throw lights on the continuous free supply of medication to all residents who are living with HIV.
Addressing the event, he opened up about the importance of basic education public and awareness campaigns. He pointed out that raising awareness through screen programs and community involvement has so far been the best way to help the twin nations fight against the virus.
PM Dr Drew also shared that education about the virus is very important and referenced schools to hold programmes that aware children on sexual health and HIV/AIDS.
Directing one of the main issues, PM Drew mentioned that global stakeholders should put more effort into increasing interventions and strengthening partnerships. Adding, he said that multilateralism in achieving global goals should focus on ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic by 2030 as per Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 3.3).
During his final remarks, the Prime Minister expressed his gratitude to UNAIDS for years of work to fight AIDS around the world. St. Kitts and Nevis will continue to be receptive to the problem.
Global leaders such as Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director of UNAIDS, and Ms. Amina Mohammed of the UN Deputy Secretary-General, marked their presence. Along with the President of Kenya, William Ruto, and Mr. Russell Dlamini, the PM of Eswatini was also present at the event.
Prime Minister Dr. Drew assured that his government will continue to work towards health and social security. Highlighting Saint Kitts and Nevis as an active member nation for International Health.
Apart from this, he also volunteered to engage with Columbia University’s students as they completed their second year. Dr Terrance Drew stated, “We explored topics such as health, sustainability, regional cooperation, and personal leadership.”
Additionally, he wished Ms. Leslie Wade, the newly appointed Permanent Observer of CARICOM, to the United Nations as she embarks on a new journey.
The Prime Minister was also seen engaging in small meetings with many world leaders, including the UAE’s Special Envoy Omar Shehadeh. The two leaders discussed about enhancing relations and possible investments in the sectors of renewable energy, infrastructure, and tourism.
