ALGIERS – Algerian Health Minister Abdelhak Saihi met with Soraya Alam, the representative of the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) in Algeria, on Wednesday to discuss the state of bilateral relations between Algeria and the UN. The meeting, as reported by the ministry, emphasized a mutual commitment to expanding and enhancing cooperation in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
During their discussions, Saihi and Alam expressed their intent to develop a “joint action program” that aligns with Algeria’s national strategic plan to combat HIV/AIDS. This initiative aims to improve the national response by specifically targeting high-risk populations, involving civil society in community-based prevention efforts, and providing essential psychosocial support to those affected by the virus.
In a bid to increase awareness and education surrounding HIV/AIDS, Minister Saihi proposed organizing comprehensive awareness campaigns throughout the year instead of confining activities to the observance of World AIDS Day. This approach seeks to create a sustained dialogue about the importance of prevention and support.
The meeting concluded with the minister highlighting the critical nature of prevention within the patient care framework, which focuses on both preventive measures and healthcare delivery. This reinforced Algeria’s commitment to advancing public health initiatives and combating the spread of HIV/AIDS effectively.
