Dutch PM urges cheaper Aids drugs

CAPE TOWN -- Developing countries should be allowed to produce or import affordable medication and drugs to fight HIV and Aids, visiting Dutch Prime Minister Wim Kok said yesterday.

Addressing MPs in the Old Assembly Chamber, he said the global problem of HIV-Aids was too threatening to be left to market forces alone.

"That is why we are actively pushing, within the European Union, for Trade Related Intellectual Property Rights to be interpreted in a way compatible with the acute needs of the poor," Kok said to loud applause.

International drug companies have hit out at government moves to allow parallel import of cheaper versions of drugs that are protected by patent rights in South Africa.

The pharmaceutical companies argue such moves are in violation of property rights laws.

Kok said the Netherlands was one of the world's largest contributors to organisations combating the disease.

His country and South Africa would initiate additional joint programmes aimed at fighting its spread in southern Africa.

President Thabo Mbeki, who met Kok earlier yesterday at Tuynhuys for a private meeting, was in the audience for the address with Deputy President Jacob Zuma, Cabinet ministers and South Africa's new ambassador to The Hague, Priscilla Jana.

Kok said his government would provide financial support for South African relief efforts in Mozambique.

"The world witnessed with admiration the outstanding, selfless and courageous relief operation South Africa launched in Mozambique when that country was struck by disastrous floods last year."

Kok also applauded South Africa's efforts to bring peace in the Congo and Burundi, and said his country fully supported the Millennium Africa Renaissance Programme unveiled earlier this year. -- Sapa