The Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology, Ministry of Health, State Administration of Chinese Traditional Medicine, Henan Provincial Government, and Yun'nan Provincial Government have jointly inked an agreement for an official S&T action combating AIDS. Aiming at preventing, containing and treating AIDS diseases, the action is designed to conduct epidemic studies, therapeutic drug and vaccine development, clinical treatment studies and application demonstration, in addition to the establishment of a technology platform for AIDS research and development. Based on existing domestic research findings, and learning from proven overseas experience, the S&T action for AIDS will contribute to the development of AIDS drugs, testing reagents, vaccines, and clinical treatment solutions tailored to China's needs. The initiative will, through enhanced demonstration and diffusion efforts, lift China's capacity and technical level in containing and treating AIDS diseases, in an attempt to reduce AIDS occurrences and mortality.

LI Xueyong, Chinese Vice Minister of Science and Technology stressed that, first of all, cooperation shall be strengthened between provinces and central government agencies, in implementing the S&T action for AIDS. Provincial authorities and central government agencies will jointly establish a steering group to guide the action, in an attempt to enhance the coordination and joint action of AIDS prevention and control activities. Secondly, expertise shall be pooled up to address key technologies. Talents shall be gathered from state, government departments, localities, and industries to form an S&T force of talent and technical strength. Efforts shall also be made to facilitate key technology development and results applications. Thirdly, S&T input shall be increased to improve S&T infrastructures. On the existing basis, the Ministry of Science and Technology will add a budget of RMB 70 million for AIDS combat activities in the later part of the 10^th Five-year period(2001-2005). The central government will increase its financing for both Henan and Yun'nan provinces, while asking the two provinces to add their respective dues for the same efforts. During the 11th Five-year period, the Ministry of Science and Technology will further enhance its input in AIDS related S&T activities. Fourthly, traditional medicines shall play a role in combating AIDS diseases, exploring diversified prevention and treatment modalities. Chinese traditional medicine shall play its role in the action, while strengthening the combined effect of western and traditional medicines. Exploring effective prevention and treatment modalities catering for China's own needs. Last but not the least, strengthening international cooperation. Strengthening cooperation with international organizations, overseas universities, research institutes and enterprises. Fully absorbing, learning, and taking advantage of proven overseas experience, in an attempt to push AIDS prevention and treatment activities ahead.