On December 1, people throughout the world observe World AIDS Day to raise awareness of the global impact of HIV/AIDS, to honor those affected by it, and—ever so importantly—to re-commit to achieving more in the upcoming year. An estimated 35 million people are living with HIV/AIDS worldwide. The theme for World AIDS Day 2014 – “Focus, Partner, Achieve: An AIDS-Free Generation” – reflects the drive to focus on interventions proven to work and to partner with a broad range of stakeholders to achieve control of the HIV epidemic and, ultimately, an AIDS-free generation.CDC plays a key role in fighting the epidemic. We provide scientific and technical support to more than 60 countries through the U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief — to which the United States is the largest contributor—to ensure maximum impact for our investments.

Together, we are making great progress: AIDS-related deaths fell by 35% since the peak in 2005 to 1.5 million, and new HIV infections decreased 38% since 2001 to 2.1 million. But millions more around the globe are waiting for access to lifesaving antiretroviral drugs, including 40 percent of eligible adults and 75 percent of eligible children. We must continue to work to reach those affected by this devastating disease, including children, adolescent girls, and other neglected and hard-to-reach groups.

The United States has made an unwavering commitment to work with partner governments and other stakeholders to turn the tide on HIV/AIDS. Working together, I know we can achieve this.