“The U.S. has restated its commitment to working with Swaziland to fight HIV/AIDS in the African country, where the disease poses a major challenge to socio-economic development,” PANA/Afrique Jet reports. “‘Our productive collaboration has helped the people of Swaziland make steady progress towards an AIDS-free generation,’ U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said in a message to Swaziland on the occasion of its 45th independence anniversary,” recognized on September 6, the news agency notes. “The United States remains dedicated to working with Swaziland not only to turn the tide against this disease, but also to strengthen democratic governance and promote economic development and trade,” Kerry said, according to PANA, which adds, “On June 4, 2009, the U.S. and Swaziland signed the Swaziland Partnership Framework on HIV and AIDS for 2009-2013” (9/6).