WHO welcomes the appointment of Peter Sands as the new Executive Director of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.

WHO works closely with the Global Fund, providing countries with evidence-based guidance and technical assistance to reduce the burden of infectious diseases, to address health inequities, and to strengthen health systems.

Peter Sands will bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the Global Fund and help the organization to enhance its critical role in the global fight against HIV, TB and malaria, which together kill over 2.7 million people each year.

Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General said, "WHO looks forward to working with Peter Sands to continue saving lives and to help countries move towards universal health coverage. We wish him the very best."

"This is a critical time in the global fight against HIV, TB and malaria. We need to accelerate progress and pay special attention to regions that have fallen behind. Slowing down is not an option," said Dr Tedros.

A strong strategic partnership between WHO and the Global Fund will be central to future efforts to strengthen basic health services around the world, and build political and financial support for universal health coverage.