670. I am speaking on behalf of the LDC Group. You are aware that LDCs represent the poorest, weakest and most vulnerable group of the community of nations. With poverty touching all aspects of life, the population in LDCs is suffering from, and is highly susceptible to, different forms of diseases. As a result, there are many other associated challenges such as access to medicines and health services.
671. Our Ministers in Doha recognized the gravity of the public health problems afflicting many developing and least developed countries, especially those resulting from HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria and other epidemics. They also agreed that the TRIPS Agreement did not and should not prevent Members from undertaking measures to protect public health.
672. While reiterating their commitment to the TRIPS Agreement, they affirmed that the Agreement could and should be interpreted and implemented in a manner supportive of WTO Members' right to protect public health and, in particular, to promote access to medicines for all.
673. We thank the Members for adopting the decision contained in IP/C/25 and WT/L/478. However we would like to note that these decisions are due to expire in 2016. This is notwithstanding the fact, not only do we not have a sound and viable technological base, but we are also perpetual victims of epidemics such as the Ebola outbreak that has caused disaster among some of our Members.
674. We are working on a proposal, which we hope to submit by the next meeting of this Council. We would like to request the Council to take note of our intervention and include this item on the agenda for our next meeting. It is our strong and firm belief that Members will respond positively to our humanitarian call.
