The European Commissioner for Research, Innovation and Science, Máire Geoghegan-Quinn, described EDCTP as “a beacon of hope” and “a brilliant success story for EU–Africa research cooperation”. She said the fight against poverty-related diseases was a global challenge in which Europe could and must make a major contribution. Appreciation and continued support for the work of EDCTP was also expressed by representatives from African and European countries, research institutions, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and pharmaceutical industry.

Many speakers highlighted the importance of equality within the Partnership. Maria da Graça Carvalho, Member of the European Parliament, described EDCTP as, “a genuine partnership with Africa, in which African partners have retained a high degree of ownership and leadership”. Nevertheless, the need for African governments to participate more actively was stressed by several speakers. Also much referred to was the need to increase the involvement of other partners – including pharmaceutical industry, product development partnerships, charities and foundations, and research communities.

The speakers unanimously welcomed the broadening of the remit of the programme. Under EDCTP2 all phases of clinical trials (I-IV) will be included and neglected infectious diseases will also receive attention. Speakers emphasised that there is much that still needs to be done and that lessons should be learned from the first programme and be put to use in EDCTP2. It was regarded as essential that research supported by EDCTP should be translated into effective new products that reach those most in need.