Having met together in New York City on September 25, 2003, representatives of the business and labor communities from the United States and Russia examined the status and outlook for the HIV epidemic in Russia and
Applaud the leadership on HIV/AIDS demonstrated by the Presidents of our two countries,
Endorse the analysis and recommendations presented in the TPAA report On the Frontline of an Epidemic: The Need for Urgency in Russia's Fight Against AIDS,
Recognize the crucial role played by business, labor and government in our societies, their essential participation in the fight against HIV/AIDS, and the urgent need to increase significantly resource allocations for HIV/AIDS,
Recognize the serious implications of HIV for social, political and economic progress and security
Underscore the moral and human aspects of HIV and the need to ensure civil rights of those living with HIV/AIDS as we fight the disease,
Determined to redouble efforts to fight HIV/AIDS in Russia,
Agreed that collaboration between U.S. and Russian business and labor groups can add yet another positive dimension to relations between our two countries and serve as a model for others to follow,
Resolve to engage in joint efforts to fight HIV/AIDS in Russia by pursuing the following steps:
Establish the Transatlantic Business and Labor Task Force on HIV/AIDS as a project under the aegis of Transatlantic Partners Against AIDS, together with the partners represented at this meeting, to support collaborative initiatives on HIV in the world of work.
Mobilize leaders from the spheres of business, labor, government, sports and entertainment to engage publicly in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Adopt workplace HIV/AIDS programs to provide accurate information about the disease and means of preventing it, and provide free and confidential testing, counseling, and related services.
Support education and prevention initiatives in communities and among health providers where we live and work.
Advocate non-discriminatory policies in the workplace, support similar policies in society generally, and pursue a legislative base that advances non-discrimination.
Work with elected officials, NGOs, and people living with HIV to advance policies and practices that support the prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS.
Exchange progress reports with our governments on a semi-annual basis.
Task TPAA to work with partners, member companies and labor organizations to elaborate a plan of action for 2004.
Convene again in Moscow no later than March 31, 2004, and invite other companies and groups to join our initiative.
