The health care challenges facing developing countries are many in number, broad in scope, and fundamental in nature. As the global community, including governments, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, private business and individual citizens, seeks remedies for the many issues that impede access to quality health care, our industry is playing a part by discovering and delivering medicines. We are dedicated to playing a role in this critical global effort.

One way we contribute, but by no means the only one, is through philanthropic programs. Our companies have spent millions in aid to people in need, both in response to ongoing health needs as well as in times of natural disasters. Our efforts encompass a multitude of approaches, including treatment of diseases, public education, training for medical professionals, and medical relief for disaster.

Our initiatives are an important part of the solution for improving the quality of health care around the world, and we are proud of what we have been able to accomplish. But the tremendous challenges facing developing countries demand continued and concerted efforts from both the private and public sectors - and we stand ready to participate in effective partnerships to help improve public health.

The pharmaceutical industry has led the way with hundreds of initiatives to be part of the solution for increasing the quality of health across the world.