The agreement reached earlier this week at a joint agency meeting in this capital represents "a new landmark in the Caribbean´s response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic," the Caribbean Media Corporation reported.

"The Pan Caribbean Social Marketing Program allows for collaboration on programs promoting behavioral change and the use of condoms as part of the overall preventive strategy for HIV and other socially transmitted infections," the CARICOM Secretariat stated.

The Canadian International Development Agency, CARICOM and the German Development Bank are providing funding for the program.

They will also finance activities at the country level, targeting schools, community groups, youth, and other vulnerable groups.

"This social marketing program complements other areas of PANCAP´s activities and the reduction of stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS."

"It also complements other social marketing initiatives funded by the

Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, and the World Bank."

By: Prensa-Latina