President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has marked World AIDS Day by reaffirming that ending AIDS is a shared global responsibility and a realistic global target for 2030.

He underscored that meaningful progress against the epidemic starts with individual action while relying on collective commitment at national and international levels.

In his message, the President drew attention to this year’s World AIDS Day theme, “Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response,” linking it to the Maldives’ recent public health gains.

He highlighted that the Maldives has become the first country to receive the World Health Organization’s “Triple Elimination” status for ending mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B, describing it as evidence of the country’s drive toward universal health coverage and equitable access to essential services.

The President noted that the Maldives’ progress is rooted in strong cross-border partnerships, encompassing solidarity, knowledge sharing, and innovation in health systems.

He reiterated the country’s commitment to international cooperation aimed at ensuring equitable care, removing stigma, and protecting the dignity and rights of all individuals affected by HIV and related conditions.

First Lady Sajidha Mohamed reinforced these messages through her own World AIDS Day statement, focusing on unity, resilience, and community empowerment as central to efforts to eliminate AIDS.

She stressed the ongoing importance of public awareness, sustained support, and inclusive access to prevention, testing, and treatment services so that stigma is reduced and no one is left behind.

World AIDS Day is observed every year on 1 December to maintain global attention on the impact of AIDS and to rally support for prevention, treatment, care, and research.

The day also serves as a platform for countries and leaders to renew their commitments to ending AIDS as a public health threat and to stand in solidarity with people living with and affected by HIV.