Speeches
Ambassador Carol A. Rodley's remarks for the Launch of the SMARTgirl Campaign at Cambodiana Hotel
Cambodiana Hotel
January 30, 2009
Your Excellencies, distinguished guest, ladies and gentlemen
I’d like to congratulate the Royal Government of Cambodia and the Ministry of Health for making Cambodia one of the few success stories in the global fight against HIV/AIDS. Cambodia’s success is due largely to your leadership and pragmatism. You showed courage in acknowledging that Cambodia had a problem, and you showed intelligence in responding to it.
However, as the HIV epidemic evolves, our challenge is to continue to achieve success without becoming a victim of it. We must resist complacency and continue to show the pragmatism and resourcefulness necessary to consolidate Cambodia’s success.
In order to help women address their high-risk sexual behavior and curb the spread of HIV/AIDS, the program must move to entertainment venues like karaoke bars and massage parlors. In order to reach these women, the program will use creative, engaging methods to teach them about the dangers of HIV and other sexual health problems.
Through innovative programs like this, and by continuing to work closely with the donor community, civil society and NGOs, the Cambodian government is showing that it is ready to face the evolving threat of HIV.
I’m proud to say that the American people have stood side by side with the Cambodian people in this fight. Since 1994, the United States has provided nearly $140 million bilaterally for HIV programs in Cambodia. The United States looks forward to continuing to work with the Cambodian government to ensure that the Cambodian people are safe from HIV. Thank you!
