How renewing a Bush era program for Africa will help us fend off Russia and China, boost national security

In medical school, I recall learning about HIV/AIDS. Understanding the science behind HIV/AIDS helped build my appreciation of the horrors it can unleash on our fellow humans when they become infected and adequate treatment is unavailable. 

The personal stories shared from those who have suffered around the world only confirmed how devastating HIV/AIDS can be to humanity. But our lectures on the subject ended on a high note – an overview of the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, or PEPFAR.

PEPFAR, a bipartisan initiative that began in 2003 under the George W. Bush administration, is one of America’s greatest global health achievements and a key diplomacy program that not only is a moral imperative but enhances our national interests and makes us a stronger and safer nation. 

Former President George W. Bush speaks at the Investing in Our Future forum at the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit in Washington on Aug. 6, 2014.…