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theme of last January’s African Union summit; to raise the level andrange of participation and collaboration of African science-based entitiesin international research and development projects; and also toinform a new science diplomacy within Africa. Through this process,it is hoped that a new dynamic will evolve to integrate Africa in globalscience processes and improve its access to scientific knowledge thatwould support the industrialization of the continent.This kind of collaboration is also positive proof of how the UnitedNations system is working closely with Africa in the areas of peaceand security, development, and human rights, the three pillars of UNwork. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, is at the forefront of such effortsand has, for instance, set up an MDG Africa Steering Group tomobilise the leadership of the UN system and major multilateral andintergovernmental agencies behind this noble agenda; and providepolicy guidance for accelerating progress in this regard.The MDGs encapsulate the major social development objectives ofthe international community and striving to achieve them will requirethat necessary investments be made to empower youth, advancethe role of women, protect vulnerable groups and provide thetotality of African people with education, health and the opportunitiesto lead fulfilling and productive lives. It is essential therefore toremain firmly focused on ensuring that no African dies of malnutritionor preventable diseases, or is deprived of education or access tobasic health care.It is equally important that treatment, prevention, care and supportfor HIV victims are within reach, and that the prevalence rate is reducedsubstantially. It is important to acknowledge that importantprogress has been made against HIV/AIDS although it is still a leadingcause of global mortality. In Africa, for instance, up to 5,800 peopledie daily and another 6,800 become infected in the same period.The African Union and the UN worked together to help develop theregional HIV and AIDS policy in Africa and we remain committed tohelping African Member States meet regional and global commitmentsin this regard.As this Council knows only too well, Africa’s development agendacannot be achieved if we do not collectively safeguard peace andsecurity in every corner of the continent. It is therefore pleasing that28 Part One