Prince Harry praises Sir Elton John’s work with HIV/Aids
The Duke of Sussex welcomed the singer to the stage during the Aids conference in Amsterdam
By Steve Brown
Prince Harry praised the work of his close friend Sir Elton John while introducing him at an Aids conference in Amsterdam.
On the second day of the conference, the ‘Don’t Go Breaking My Heart’ singer launched a billion-dollar initiative aimed at targeting HIV infections in men in sub-Saharan Africa.
Ahead of the announcement, the Duke of Sussex said he was “honoured” to be sharing the stage with Sir Elton and the two – who are both influential figures in the global fight against the virus – hugged on stage.
The Duke of Sussex said: “For over a quarter century, Elton has worked tirelessly to fund research and services in communities around the world.
“And today, he has come to Amsterdam to announce his latest endeavour – a billion-dollar global partnership to break the cycle of make transmission of HIV, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.
“We stand here at a moment when the progress we have fought so hard for is at risk from a dangerous complacency.
“Too many around the world are still ignoring the damaging knock-on effect on education and other community services from not prioritising HIV prevention and treatment.
“This is a time when new, energetic and innovative solutions are needed more than ever before – and that is exactly what you are about to see from Elton and the Men Star Coalition partners.
“To formally announce the Men Star Coalition, it is my honour to introduce my friend, Sir Elton John.”
Over the years, Prince Harry has continued the work of his mother Princess Diana – the first ever member of the Royal family to have contact with a person suffering from HIV/Aids – and has raised awareness about the epidemic and encourages people to get tested.
Last year, Prince Harry accepted the Attitude Magazine Legacy Award at The Virgin Holidays Attitude Awards, powered by Jaguar, on behalf of hist mother, for her ground-breaking HIV/Aids activism.