ISTANBUL

China has committed $3.49 million in two-year funding to support HIV prevention efforts in South Africa, state-run Xinhua News reported Thursday.

The agreement, organized by UNAIDS, was announced at a ceremony at the Chinese Embassy in Pretoria, South Africa’s administrative capital.

South Africa, home to about 8 million people living with HIV and nearly 6 million on antiretroviral treatment, has prioritized reducing new infections, particularly among high-risk groups such as adolescents and young adults.

UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima said the investment reflects China's support for multilateral cooperation and South–South partnerships.

"It shows China's commitment to multilateralism and advancing South-South cooperation, through sharing of technology, innovation, and grant funding in our pursuit of universal health coverage and the goal of ending AIDS by 2030," she said.

Chinese Ambassador to South Africa Wu Peng said the project represents concrete progress under the Global Development Initiative and contributes to building a “global community of health for all.”

"China stands firmly with South Africa as it strengthens its HIV prevention and treatment programs. In addition to this project, we stand ready to assist South Africa in establishing a sustainable HIV/AIDS response system through policy dialogue,” he added.

The two-year initiative is expected to support HIV prevention programs reaching 54,000 adolescents and young people.