Karandeep: Ottawa, Ontario - December 1, 2024 – Prime Minister Justin Trudeau marked World AIDS Day with a statement highlighting the ongoing fight against HIV in Canada and globally.
“Every day, an estimated five Canadians contract HIV. While breakthroughs in medical research now help people living with HIV lead long and healthy lives, the stigma surrounding HIV persists. No Canadian should have to feel alone in this fight,” the Prime Minister said.
Trudeau emphasized Canada's commitment to meeting its 2025 targets for HIV testing and treatment, focusing on culturally safe access to prevention, testing, treatment, and care, especially for communities such as 2SLGBTQI+, Indigenous, and Afro-Caribbean groups. He pointed to the launch of the Sexually Transmitted and Blood-Borne Infections Action Plan 2024-2030, aimed at accelerating the end of HIV as a public health concern.
Internationally, Trudeau noted Canada’s efforts through partnerships, including the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, which have helped test millions for HIV and provided antiretroviral treatment to tens of millions. “Our work is far from over, but through valued partnerships with organizations such as UNAIDS, we can build on this progress and save millions of lives,” he added.
On this World AIDS Day, Trudeau encouraged Canadians to learn more about HIV and AIDS, challenge the stigma, and join the collective effort to end the epidemic. “Together, we can build a healthier future for everyone,” he concluded.