Reply #4: Harper under fire as AIDS conference opens [View All]

[CHIMO]

Harper under fire as AIDS conference opens
Last Updated Sun, 13 Aug 2006 20:36:06 EDT
CBC News

The Canadian co-chairman of the 16th International AIDS Conference condemned Prime Minister Stephen Harper on Sunday at the opening ceremony in Toronto.

Dr. Mark Wainberg of Montreal criticized the prime minister for declining an invitation to open the conference.

"We are dismayed that the prime minister of Canada, Mr. Stephen Harper, is not here this evening," Wainberg said at the Roger's Centre.

"Mr. Harper, the role of prime minister includes the responsibility to show leadership on the world stage. Your absence sends a message that you do not regard HIV/AIDS as a critical priority and clearly all of us here tonight disagree with you," he said, prompting a standing ovation from the crowd.

People crowded the front of the stage, carrying signs that read "Sleep in Steve? HIV Never Sleeps!"

http://www.cbc.ca/story/canada/national/2006/08/13/aids-conference.html


Bill Gates urged scientists on Sunday to work harder to develop microbicides to protect women from HIV. (Adrian Wyld/Canadian Press)