Elton John joins with US agencies on new AIDS program

US Secretary of State John Kerry (R) and British singer Elton John talk to reporters about the United States President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) initiative to fight HIV/AIDS in Africa and the work of the Elton John AIDS Foundation, at the State Department in Washington October 24, 2014. [Photo/Agencies]

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British singer and activist Elton John said on Friday a new $7 million partnership between his foundation and US government agencies will help create an AIDS-free society but urged more work to reach that goal.

John met with US Secretary of State John Kerry at the State Department where they announced the joint project to help expand access to HIV services for gays and transgender individuals in Africa.

The new program called Health4Men will involve PEPFAR, the US President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, and the US Agency for International Development (USAID) and initially focus on South Africa.

John said it was "a dream come true" to combine the efforts of his foundation with US government initiatives.

"We should be living in an AIDS-free world, and that people, no matter who they love, who they are, should have a right to be AIDS-free," said John, who is one of Britain's most prominent musicians and gay celebrities.

"I think we will do great work, and we have a lot more work to do, but this is a good start," he added.

Kerry thanked John for his leadership and commended his foundation for "bringing hope and help to a lot of people."