PHA-Exchange> Malaysia - Attorney-General Defends Generic Medicines Before UN Rights Body

[Claudio]

From: Bala 
From:  admin at 3dthree.org


Geneva, 5 February 2007 -- Malaysia 's Attorney-General Tan Sri ABDUL GANI has publicly stated his country's stand "that generic drugs should not be restricted in any manner," as generics are cheaper than patented medicines.  



He made this statement before the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC), whose session concluded in Geneva last week.   He was speaking in response to pointed questions from the Committee's Chair, Jacob E. Doek, who asked Malaysian governmental representatives how they can ensure that trade agreements do not affect provision of generic medicines, particularly for the treatment of HIV/AIDS.



ABDUL GANI specified that bilateral "Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) are TRIPS-plus" and that Malaysia has not yet agreed to any bilateral trade agreement with the U.S.   Implying that a U.S.-Malaysia FTA could result in more expensive drugs, Attorney-General ABDUL GANI said that Malaysia is not going to negotiate on this issue, and added "we are providing the drugs for free."  



This discussion took place during the CRC's periodic review of the status of children's rights in Malaysia .[1]  The CRC had before it a note from non-governmental sources that described the adverse impacts on children's rights of the FTA Malaysia is currently negotiating with the U.S.



For more information about the CRC and its role in ensuring trade rules do not undermine human rights, see the attached Information Note or contact 3D at info at 3dthree.org 


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