Science, love needed to fight HIV/AIDS: Premier Li

BEIJING - Chinese Premier Li Keqiang has stressed the need for scientific treatment and caring hearts in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Li made the comments in a letter he wrote to Beijing You'an Hospital. Vice Premier Liu Yandong visited the hospital on Sunday, World AIDS Day, and conveyed Li's letter.

Beijing You'an Hospital is one of the country's leading medical facilities to receive and treat HIV infected patients.

In his letter, Li said scientific prevention and treatment should be provided while discrimination against HIV carriers and AIDS patients should be eliminated to protect their legal rights and interests.

He also encouraged more volunteers to take part in the country's HIV/AIDS control work to form a "network" and "firewall" in fighting the virus.

"Just like the untold stars may light up the night sky, HIV/AIDS control needs not only the government authorities to perform their duties, but also the commitment of volunteers in society," Li said, adding that non-governmental organizations can play an irreplaceable role in communicating with the infected, intervening in high-risk exposures as well as giving consolation and advice to patients.

Li expressed his appreciation to the country's work in HIV/AIDS control. "The rising tendency of HIV infections has been contained, and that is no easy job in China as a populous developing country," he wrote.

However, Li also noted that the situation facing the country is still complex and tough.

Liu visited patients in the hospital and talked with medical experts, doctors and volunteers.

She said there should be no excuse for medical organizations to refuse AIDS patients and the government should provide more assistance to the infected in their work and life.