UNITED NATIONS (TIP): The United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) has appointed global Indian icon, Mrs. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan as International Goodwill Ambassador. UNAIDS Executive Director Michel Sidibe announced Aishwarya as the Goodwill Ambassador at a press conference in New York on Monday, September 24.. Ash will raise global awareness on protecting children from HIV infection & increasing access to antiretroviral treatment.

In her acceptance remarks, Aishwarya said, “I am honored to accept this appointment. Spreading awareness on health issues especially related to women and children has always been of concern. And now as a new mother, I can personally relate to this – the joys and concerns of every mother, and the hopes that we have for our children. I pray and strongly believe that no baby should be born with HIV. And I wish that every woman living with HIV stays healthy and has access to treatment. I promise that with UNAIDS, I will do my utmost to make this happen. My father-in-law Amitabh Bachchan had served as the International Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF.”

Dressed in black outfit and clearly happy about her appointment, Aishwarya said that she does not just want to be a poster girl but will work at the grassroots level to eradicate the social barriers and stigmas attached with the disease. Ash also said she would be going to sites across India and other countries, interact with people, appeal to governments and talk with pharma companies to see what works need to be done in the area.