Partnership and accountability among countries will lead to global health successes

In remarks at the Africa Health Forum on Friday in Washington, D.C., Deputy Secretary of State William Burns discussed the evolution of foreign assistance and cooperation "from a donor-recipient relationship to more of a partnership," according to a speech transcript provided by the U.S. State Department. "This partnership -- based on principles of country ownership, shared responsibility, and mutual respect -- allows donors and partner countries to better meet the needs of the country's population," he said, adding, "Where transparency, good governance, and accountability are enshrined in law and in practice -- our joint investments will yield more effective, more efficient, and ultimately more sustainable outcomes." He continued, "The only way we can eradicate polio, reach the goal of an AIDS-free generation, eliminate the effects of neglected tropical diseases, roll back malaria, and end preventable maternal and child deaths, is if we do it together" (4/19).