The XI Global Baku Forum is taking place in the capital of Azerbaijan from March 14 to 16.

As part of the forum, a meeting was held between the Minister of Health, Teymur Musayev, and the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN), Executive Director of the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), Winnie Byanyima. Also present at the meeting was Eamonn Murphy, the Director of Support Groups for the Asia-Pacific Region, Eastern Europe, and Central Asia.

Welcoming the guests, Teymur Musayev thanked the Deputy Secretary-General of the UN for participating in the Global Baku Forum. "As noted by the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, the XI Global Baku Forum is an important platform for discussing urgent issues on the international agenda. Currently, under the leadership of the head of state, all necessary measures are being taken in Azerbaijan to ensure that this event is fruitful in its content," added the minister.

In his speech, Teymur Musayev also emphasized Azerbaijan's close cooperation with relevant UN institutions. According to the minister, in Azerbaijan, with the support of UNAIDS/WHO, every five years since 2006, the Cabinet of Ministers approves the HIV/AIDS Prevention Program: "The goal of the program is to reduce the prevalence of HIV infection in Azerbaijan, prolong the lives of people living with HIV, and improve their quality of life."

Teymur Musayev concluded by highlighting joint efforts to combat HIV/AIDS worldwide, as well as potential cooperation opportunities.

In turn, Winnie Byanyima recalled her meeting with the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, last year and her participation in the anniversary Global Baku Forum. It was noted that the Global Forums organized in the capital of Azerbaijan always take place at the highest level. Emphasizing Azerbaijan's successes in healthcare, including in the fight against infectious diseases and AIDS, the UN Deputy Secretary-General highlighted significant achievements in implementing set tasks and successfully implementing sustainable development programs in this area.

During the meeting, there was also an exchange of views on other issues of mutual interest.