The U.S. is the largest investor in improving health and fighting major diseases. Since 2003, our Congress has committed approximately $20 billion to fight HIV, tuberculosis, malaria, and other neglected tropical diseases. The U.S. has quadrupled its funding for the fight against these diseases since 2000. I believe we owe a debt of gratitude to both President Bush and our Congress for providing critical leadership and the resources to protect the health of millions of people around the globe. For more than two years, Mrs. Laura Bush has lent her voice and position as First Lady of the United States of America to touch the lives of people who have suffered from malaria. Mrs. Bush’s compassion and personal commitment has attracted global attention, galvanized action, and spurred grassroots and private-sector efforts to eliminate the disease.
