Public Remarks
Opening Remarks at International Labor Organization Dissemination Workshop
William J. Burns, U.S. Ambassador to Russia
Joint ILO-USDOL HIV/AIDS Workplace Prevention Project, Novotel Hotel, Moscow , March 11, 2008
I am honored to join you today in celebrating the strong partnership among business, workers' organizations, the regional governments in the Murmansk and Moscow Oblasts, the International Labor Organization and the U.S. Department of Labor, on a joint project to raise awareness and prevent HIV/AIDS in the workplace.
Four years ago my predecessor, Ambassador Vershbow, joined you in launching this project with the idea that more could be accomplished if we worked together. I am pleased to see so many leaders and prominent members of Russian government, business, labor and civil society here today have committed to this challenge.
Unchecked, AIDS could have a devastating effect on Russia – on its labor markets, private industry, and the overall economy. It is encouraging to see Russian and American business and labor groups doing their part to educate workers and employers about HIV/AIDS. This not only helps prevent the disease from spreading, but also diminishes the stigma so often attached to those living with HIV/AIDS.
Today's discussion is a chance to showcase the progress this joint project has achieved, and to discuss how to build on our success. When it began four years ago at major firms in the Murmansk and Moscow Oblasts, this project represented the first wave of workplace programs on HIV/AIDS in Russia. Since then, and thanks in large part to the success of this program, other strong partnerships have grown throughout Russia among government, business, labor and civil society.
Both President Putin and President Bush recognize HIV/AIDS is a global challenge, a threat that knows no borders. This project has shown once again the importance of international cooperation in combating this deadly disease, whether in Russia or elsewhere.
Again, thank you for inviting me to join you this morning. I wish you all the very best in today's workshop.