Today, the Japanese Diet approved a contribution to the Global Fund as part of its regular budget for FY2017. Coupled with the contribution it approved in the FY2016 supplementary budget, that brings the total to US$313 million. This is the largest single contribution except for the year following the Great East Japan Earthquake.
In announcing the contribution, Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida noted, “As a founder of the Global Fund, Japan has always attached the utmost importance to the Global Fund. I believe this contribution once again highlights Japan’s intention to contribute even further to addressing global health challenges based on the principle of leaving no one behind.”
In a Global Fund press release, Executive Director Mark Dybul praised Japan’s contribution, stating, “Japan’s steadfast support for the Global Fund is a clear demonstration of its leadership in global health, and we applaud their commitment.”
This sentiment was echoed by FGFJ Director Akio Okawara, who noted, “Japan’s steady leadership is even more appreciated in the global environment where leadership changes are creating uncertainty and the dichotomy in the debate of global cooperation versus national interest is becoming more acute.”
“The fight against infectious diseases is truly a global challenge that transcends national boundaries and political ideals. I hope this year’s contribution creates a positive momentum in spite of the fiscal challenges that persist,” said Ichiro Aizawa, a top Japanese parliamentarian who heads the FGFJ Diet Task Force.
Japan has a long-standing commitment to the Global Fund, having paved the way for its creation at the G8 Okinawa-Kyushu Summit in 2000. Japan is currently the fifth largest donor to the Global Fund. Once the approved contribution payment is made, Japan will have disbursed $2.8 billion. Japan’s contributions, combined with those from other countries and partners, have enabled the Global Fund to save 20 million lives to date and to strengthen systems for health throughout the developing world.
Read the Global Fund press release
