Speaking during this morning's debate in Parliament on a global EU response to HIV/AIDS, GUE/NGL MEP Marisa Matias said it was important to send out a clear and positive message from the Parliament today, World AIDS Day.

Unfortunately, despite all the work done in the field, there were approximately 25,000 new cases diagnosed in the EU and EEA countries and some 100,000 in neighbouring countries in 2010.

"And things are only going to get worse," Matias warned. "We must act now to prevent this. There is a great need for serious investment in the health sector, which is lacking due to the current economic and social crisis," she said.

The Commission also has a fundamental role to play to ensure that member states fulfil their commitments.

"We must also eliminate discrimination, ensure equal treatment and iron out the inequalities facing people seeking care and treatment," MEP Matias concluded. 

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David Lundy +32 485 50 58 12

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