Press Release

THE GLOBAL FUND WELCOMES PRODUCT RED

Thu, 26 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

1/26/2006

New, Innovative Private Sector Initiative Will Increase Global Fund Resources and Improve Knowledge About the Global Fund Among Consumers

Davos - The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria warmly welcomes the announcement here today of a new corporate initiative to create a sustainable and profitable brand - Product RED - which will raise funds for and awareness of the Global Fund and the fight against HIV/AIDS in Africa.

It is the first time that the world's leading companies have made a commitment to channel a percentage of profits from popular consumer products to assist in the fight against the HIV/AIDS pandemic, which kills three million people every year. The money generated by the sale of RED products will support Global Fund-financed programs which positively impact the lives of women and children affected by HIV/AIDS in Africa.

"By making socially responsible consumption appealing to consumers and profitable for companies, RED is pioneering a sustainable model for the involvement of the private sector in the fight against disease and poverty", said Dr Richard Feachem, Executive Director of the Global Fund. "RED is not a charity or public fundraising campaign. It is a business proposition that brings together partners with distinct priorities into a mutually beneficial relationship. Companies expand their customer base and bottom-line by combining their products with a brand that is both culturally significant and compassionate, while the Global Fund and its recipients gain not only critical financial resources but also publicity for their work. As a result, RED has the potential to be larger and more sustainable than other private sector fundraising initiatives to date."

"The Global Fund is a public-private partnership and this initiative confirms the private sector as a committed stakeholder in the vision and work of the Global Fund," said Dr Carol Jacobs, the Chair of the Global Fund Board. "We appreciate this initiative and we thank Bono, Bobby Shriver of DATA, and the CEOs and teams of the partner companies who made it possible. We also thank our Private Sector Board member, Rajat Gupta, the Private Sector delegation focal point, the Global Business Coalition on HIV/AIDS, and McKinsey & Company, who all helped facilitate this important initiative."

The Global Fund will channel proceeds from the sale of RED products to a set of existing grants, such as in Rwanda, where a dramatic scale-up of HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment is underway. RED will capture the imagination of consumers around the world and engage them in the life-saving work in countries like Rwanda and have a broad reaching impact on the fight against HIV/AIDS.

The agreements with RED and its partner companies do not add significant administrative work for the Global Fund or its recipients, ensuring that the funds raised go to where they are needed most.

To date, the Global Fund has committed US$1.4 billion to HIV/AIDS programs in sub-Saharan Africa. These programs have already used the funding to provide life-extending antiretroviral medications to 270,000 people living with AIDS and reached millions more with effective messages and tools to prevent infection with HIV. Half a million orphans have been reached with food, care and education.

The Global Fund needs additional resources to extend its successful programs and to launch new grants. This scale up is essential if the goal of universal access to prevention and treatment by 2010 is to be met. The Global Fund is seeking an additional US$3 billion for 2006-2007 in order to fully finance existing and new programs.

Since its creation in 2002, the private sector has played an integral role in the operations and governance of the Global Fund. Private businesses and foundations each have a seat and equal vote on the organization's 24-member Board. At the country level, businesses act as recipients of Global Fund finances, partnering with local governments and organizations to extend successful disease fighting programs beyond their factories to impact surrounding communities.

**********

The Global Fund is a unique global public-private partnership dedicated to attracting and disbursing additional resources to prevent and treat HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria. This partnership between governments, civil society, the private sector and affected communities represents a new approach to international health financing. The Fund works in close collaboration with other bilateral and multilateral organizations to supplement existing efforts dealing with the three diseases.

The Global Fund has so far committed US$4.6 billion to 385 programs in 131 countries. Around half of the funding is being spent on medicines, mosquito nets to prevent malaria and other products, while the other half is for strengthening health services. While the average age of Global Fund grants is 18 months, already substantial results have been achieved, with 384,000 people having been supported with treatment for HIV/AIDS, 1 million people having received TB treatment and more than 7.7 million families having received insecticide-treated bed nets to prevent malaria.

Apart from a high standard of technical quality, the Global Fund attaches no conditions to any of its grants. It is not an implementing agency, instead relying on local ownership and planning to ensure that new resources are directed to programs on the frontline of this global effort to reach those most in need. Its performance-based approach to grant-making is designed to ensure that funds are used efficiently and create real change for people and communities. All programs are monitored by independent organizations contracted by the Global Fund to ensure that its funding has an impact in the fight against these three pandemics.

For more information on the work of the Global Fund, please visit our website: www.theglobalfund.org

For further information, please contact:
Rosie Vanek
The Global Fund
Office: + 41 22 791 5951
Mobile: + 41 79 445 14 85
rosie.vanek@theglobalfund.org

Or
Jon Liden
The Global Fund
Office: +41 22 791 1723
Mobile: +41 79 244 6006
jon.liden@theglobalfund.org

AMERICAN EXPRESS JOINS THE PRODUCT RED REVOLUTION

Thu, 26 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

1/26/2006

- American Express RED launched to help fight HIV and AIDS in Africa -

26 January, 2006 - American Express today announced its partnership with Product RED1, a revolutionary new business initiative created by Bono and Bobby Shriver, Chairman of DATA (Debt, AIDS, Trade, Africa), to deliver a sustainable flow of private sector money to the Global Fund2 to help fight AIDS in Africa.

As a founding member of RED, American Express will be one of the first companies to develop a bespoke product, launching a new credit card in the UK - American Express RED3 - the membership card of the RED community.

RED is a union of brands, people and ideas that delivers great products, drives commerce and advances the global movement in helping women and children affected by HIV/AIDS in Africa.

Available March 1st, those spending with American Express RED will be able to play their part in supporting this important cause by simply using their credit card as normal. For every pound spent on the card, American Express will donate 1% of every transaction to the Global Fund.

American Express RED will be the first credit card to meet payment needs of a new and growing group of individuals termed 'Conscience Consumers'. These are consumers who make decisions about the brands they purchase based on their social, ethical, and environmental values. The Future Laboratory4 estimates there are currently 1.5m 'Conscience Consumers' in the UK and this figure is set to rise to 3.9m by 2009.

John Hayes, Chief Marketing Officer of American Express Company said. "American Express is proud to be the founding partner of RED. Both because it has encouraged us to think about our own products in new and innovative ways. And, for the potential it has to improve the lives of women and children affected by AIDS in Africa".

For more information or to apply for American Express RED log onto:
www.AmericanExpressRED.co.uk

- Ends -

For further information please contact:

Gemma Truman (Freud)
Tel: 020 7291 6323 gemma.truman@freud.com

Doug Smith (American Express)
Tel: 020 7976 4418 doug.w.smith@aexp.com

Jon Liden (Global Fund)
Tel: +41 22 791 1723 jon.liden@theglobalfund.org

R�gine Moylett (RED)

Tel: +44 (0) 208 749 7999 regine@rmplondon.co.uk

1. Product RED
- RED is a global initiative whose primary objective is to engage the private sector in the fight against AIDS in Africa by channelling funds from the sale of RED products directly to the Global Fund To Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.
- Companies whose products take on the RED mark have made a commitment to contribute a portion of profits from the sale of that product to the Global Fund to finance AIDS programmes in Africa, with a focus on women and children.
- Current partners are: American Express, Converse, Gap and Giorgio Armani.

2. The Global Fund
- The Global Fund is the world's leading funder of programmes to fight AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria.
- Created in 2002, the Global Fund has committed over $4.5 billion to life saving programmes in 130 countries and accounts for a quarter of the world's funding for AIDS programmes in the developing world (over 50% for malaria and 65% for tuberculosis).
- Global Fund-financed programs already support nearly half a million people on AIDS treatment and reach tens of millions with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves against HIV infection.
- The Global Fund is a public-private partnership, governed by representatives of governments, the private sector and civil society from all over the world. It allows countries to design and execute their own programs, but provides funds only on the basis of proven results. It is a lean institution with an overhead of less than 3%, ensuring that resources go directly to where they are needed most.
- Currently, most of its funding comes from governments and only 1% comes from the private sector. The Global Fund needs additional resources from all sectors to continue scaling up the support for life-saving work around the world.
- For more information about the Global Fund, visit: www.theglobalfund.org

3. About American Express RED
- There will be no annual fee and a competitive rate of 12.9% APR.
- 1% on all eligible spend (goods and services transactions only - fees and ATM transactions for example are excluded) on American Express RED is paid directly to the Global Fund on the Cardmember's behalf.
- Spending above �5,000 per year will generate a donation of 1.25% on all spending above that amount, and an extra �5 will be given to the Global Fund if Cardmembers make their first purchase on the Card within the first month.
- American Express is a world leader in providing charge and credit cards to consumers, small businesses and corporations.
- It is the world's largest travel agency, offering travel and related consulting services to individuals and corporations around the world.

4. The Future Laboratory
- The Future Laboratory is one of the UK's foremost trends, brands and futures organisations. Established in 2001 to work with a range of clients in the lifestyle, fashion, finance, technology and retail sectors, it uses a three-pronged process to research, quantify and validate its reports.
- Initial consumer trends and key cultural changes are identified via a 2,500 strong LifeSigns Network of culture analysts located in key cities in the UK and E.U.
- Findings are then validated by a team of in-house researchers who data mine existing research and reports on the areas under review - in this case changing attitudes to ethics and ethical consumption.
- When this process is complete they work to canvas 1000 UK consumers for their views and comments on the issues and trends identified.

BONO AND BOBBY SHRIVER LAUNCH PRODUCT RED TO HARNESS POWER OF THE WORLD'S ICONIC BRANDS TO FIGHT AIDS IN AFRICA

Thu, 26 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

1/26/2006

American Express, Converse, Gap and Giorgio Armani announce first RED products
to generate revenue stream for the Global Fund

26 January, 2006 -Today, at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Bono and Bobby Shriver announced Product RED, an economic initiative designed to deliver a sustainable flow of private sector money to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. It is the first time that the world's leading companies have made a commitment to channel a portion of profits from sales of specially-designed products to the Global Fund to support AIDS programmes in Africa with a focus on women and children.

RED presents a new and profitable way of doing business by harnessing the partners' brand-building expertise while generating a new income stream for the Global Fund. International brands including American Express (founding partner), Converse, Gap and Giorgio Armani are the launch partners. They have designed products that will take on the RED mark and will be available from 1st March 2006.

Bobby Shriver, Chief Executive Officer of Product RED said, "This is a long term initiative designed for sustainability. RED partners expect that they will broaden their own customer base and increase loyalty in a manner that delivers a sustainable revenue stream to both the company and the Global Fund."

Shriver continued, "It's incredible to have the marketing brilliance of these companies behind the AIDS emergency."

Currently, the private sector contributes less than 1% of the Global Fund's resource needs. RED believes this initiative will start a new income stream into the Fund.

"RED is a 21st century idea. It's an amazing thing that these companies are doing - lending their creativity and financial firepower to the Global Fund's fight against AIDS in Africa, the greatest health crisis in 600 years. I think doing the RED thing, doing good, will turn out to be good business for them," said Bono.

How Funding Works

A portion of profits from the sale of RED products will support Global Fund-financed programmes which positively impact the lives of women and children affected by HIV/AIDS in Africa. These include programmes in countries such as Rwanda, which has a proven track record and ambitious targets. For example, in the past two years, Rwanda has increased the number of people receiving treatments for HIV/AIDS ten-fold.

Each programme highlighted by RED will be selected based on the following Global Fund criteria:

Focus:
. The grant's activities are related to HIV/AIDS treatment, care and prevention and focus on women and children in Africa

Performance:
. The programme is performing well as evidenced by progress reports and a mid-programme performance review

Reporting:
. The programme's principal recipient is providing progress reports and making disbursement requests to the Global Fund on time
. The Global Fund Secretariat has been approving disbursement requests, based on Local Fund Agent (professional consultants') recommendations to the Secretariat

"Product RED is a breakthrough in corporate and consumer engagement for the greatest global crisis of our time - the HIV/AIDS pandemic," said Professor Richard Feachem, Executive Director, the Global Fund. "RED can make a substantial contribution to financing the massive scale up of prevention, testing, treatment and care that are desperately needed in Africa."

President Nelson Mandela added, "We must all come together in supporting the Global Fund and the fight against AIDS. RED carries the promise of capturing the world's attention to do just that and I applaud RED and its partners for their vision and commitment."

RED Products

American Express has developed a credit card that offers free annual membership and a minimum of 1% on all eligible spend is paid directly to The Global Fund on the Cardmember's behalf. Spending above �5000 per year will generate an increase of 1.25% on all spending above that amount. An extra �5 will be given to The Global Fund if Cardmembers make their first purchase on the Card within the first month. There will also be a number of added benefits for American Express RED Cardmembers including unique 'experiences', hand picked discounts and access to entertainment and retail events. The Card will be available from March 2006.

The inaugural Converse RED Collection is the Chuck Taylor All Star mudcloth shoe designed by UK designer Giles Deacon. Converse was inspired by Nakunte Diarra, a renowned mudcloth artist and storyteller since the 1950's who originates from Mali, to fully understand the art, symbolism and technique of Bogolanfini, a mud-dyed cloth of the Bamana people of Mali. Bogolanfini is a living art form, constantly changing, reflecting new inspirations, while paying homage to the past. Artists use techniques passed down through generations and motifs, which express the individual style and creativity of the artist, are based on well-known geometric patterns. Bogolanfini is an essential part of the Bamana people's lives, marking major life transitions, marriage, birth, excision and death. The Converse RED mudcloth shoe is an original work of art created to combine fashion and social consciousness to celebrate and preserve African culture and creativity.
The Chuck Taylor All Star mudcloth shoe is available in one-of-a-kind mudcloth options available March 2006 in select specialty stores in the United Kingdom and the United States and world-wide on converse.com.

Gap is developing a special collection of items to be sold initially in the UK and US. The first piece of the collection to debut is a t-shirt, the most iconic of Gap's items. The 100% African-made vintage-style t-shirt will come in red, as well as a range of colours for both men and women, and will be available in UK stores in Spring 2006.

An enhanced collection will be launched in Fall 2006 - again rooted in classic Gap items, but featuring special details inspired by RED.

Giorgio Armani's first RED product will be a pair of Emporio Armani Sunglasses (Style EA 9285/s). The striking metal wraparound sunglasses are designed with a single lens available in green, rose, blue, smoke grey, grey and brown, all embossed with the Emporio Armani RED logo. The forked arms, available in shades of ruthenium, gunmetal and light gold, are superimposed on the lens with a futuristic feel. The Emporio Armani RED Sunglasses will be available from April in all Emporio Armani stores and in select specialty eyewear stores and department stores worldwide.

Giorgio Armani will present a complete Emporio Armani RED capsule collection for women and men, including clothing, accessories, fragrances, watches, eyewear and jewellery later in 2006.

For images from today's press conference visit www.swiss-image.ch/webwef/INDEX.htm
For product images and more information on RED visit www.joinred.com
For more information on the Global Fund visit www.theglobalfund.org

For more information contact:

R�gine Moylett
RED
Email: regine@rmplondon.co.uk

Jon Lid�n
The Global Fund
Email: jon.liden@TheGlobalFund.org

Doug Smith
American Express
Email: doug.w.smith@aexp.com

Cheryl Calegari
Converse Inc.
Email: cheryl.calegari@converse.com

Anita Borzyszkowska
Gap
Email: anita_borzyszkowska@gap.com

Robert Triefus
Giorgio Armani
Email: robert.triefus@giorgioarmani.it

GAP JOINS PRODUCT RED, A GLOBAL EFFORT SUPPORTING AFRICA

Thu, 26 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

1/26/2006

Gap Inc. a Launch Partner in Business Initiative Founded by Bono and Bobby Shriver to Fight AIDS in Africa, Will Develop Special Clothing Line Collection

DAVOS, 26 January, 2006 -- Gap Inc. (NYSE:GPS) will deepen its commitment to sustainable economic development in Africa through a new collection of clothing offered by Gap brand inspired by Product RED. The global business initiative announced today by Bono and Bobby Shriver will support The Global Fund in the fight against AIDS in Africa.

In support of RED, Gap is developing a special collection of items to be sold initially in the UK and US markets. The first piece of the collection to debut will be a t-shirt, the most iconic of Gap's items. The 100% African-made, vintage-style t-shirt will come in red, and a range of other colors, for both men and women. The t-shirt will be available in UK stores in Spring 2006. The enhanced collection will be launched in Fall 2006 - again rooted in classic Gap items, but featuring special details inspired by RED.

"We are thrilled to join Bono and Bobby Shriver in generating excitement around RED," said Paul Pressler, president and CEO of Gap Inc. "Gap has always been about connecting with what's culturally relevant, providing great style -- and about making a difference. Aligned with these same tenets, RED provides a unique opportunity for our customers to participate in a critical global effort to support Africa."

Gap Inc. has committed to contributing a percentage of proceeds from sales of its RED collection to The Global Fund. Other RED launch partners include American Express, Giorgio Armani and Converse.

"As a South African, I am personally very proud of Gap's involvement in Product RED," said Andrew Rolfe, president of Gap International who attended the announcement at the World Economic Forum in Davos. "Through all of our RED offerings, we'll deliver the unique clothing our customers want while supporting the needs of African workers and communities. So, RED is a perfect fit for Gap and I'm pleased that we're launching our collection in the UK."

Gap Inc. is a leading international specialty retailer offering clothing, accessories and personal care products for men, women, children and babies under the Gap, Banana Republic and Old Navy brand names. Fiscal 2004 sales were $16.3 billion. Gap Inc. operates about 3,000 stores in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, France and Japan. For more information, please visit gapinc.com.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Gap Inc., Greg Rossiter, 415-427-2360

Gap International, Anita Borzyszkowska, 44-207-518-6364

INVESTOR CONTACT:
Gap Inc., Mark Webb, 415-4272161

Note to Editors

About (PRODUCT)RED

RED is a global initiative whose primary objective is to engage the private sector in the fight against AIDS in Africa by channelling funds from the sale of RED products directly to the Global Fund To Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. Companies whose products take on the RED mark contribute a portion of profits from the sale of that product to the Global Fund to finance AIDS programmes in Africa, with a focus on women and children. Current partners are: American Express, Converse, Gap and Giorgio Armani.

The Global Fund

The Global Fund is the world's leading funder of programs to fight AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria. Created in 2002, the Global Fund has committed over $4.5 billion to life-saving programs in 130 countries and accounts for a quarter of the world's funding for AIDS programs in the developing world (over half for malaria and two-thirds for tuberculosis). Global Fund-financed programs already support nearly half a million people on AIDS treatment, provide over half a million children orphaned by AIDS with medical services, education and community care and reach tens of millions with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves against HIV infection.

The Global Fund is a public-private partnership, governed by representatives of governments, the private sector and civil society from all over the world. It enables countries to design and execute their own programs, but provides funds only on the basis of proven results. It is a lean institution with operating costs of less than 3%, ensuring that resources go directly to where they are needed most.

The Global Fund needs additional resources from all sectors to continue scaling up the support for life-saving work around the world.

For more information about the Global Fund, visit: www.theglobalfund.org

GIORGIO ARMANI DESIGNS EMPORIO ARMANI CAPSULE COLLECTION FOR PRODUCT RED, A GLOBAL EFFORT SUPPORTING AFRICA

Thu, 26 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

1/26/2006

Giorgio Armani, a launch partner in business initiative founded by Bono and Bobby Shriver to fight AIDS in Africa

DAVOS, 26th January, 2006 - Giorgio Armani, speaking at the Davos World Economic Forum today, announced his support of the Product RED, the pioneering global business initiative launched by Bono and Bobby Shriver for The Global Fund.

Giorgio Armani, Chairman and Chief Executive of Giorgio Armani SpA, said, "It is time to take action, but in a new way. When my friends Bono and Bobby Shriver invited me to join forces through RED, I understood immediately that this was a pioneering initiative. To unify global brands for goodwill is both powerful and humbling. I have always seen brilliance in simplicity - and RED perfectly defines this. I am proud to follow an inspirational warrior like Bono in the fight against AIDS in Africa. I have always considered myself to be a democratic designer and I will now dedicate myself to work on this initiative in the way I have always done, involving all of those people around the world who enjoy my designs."

In support of RED, Giorgio Armani is designing a special Emporio Armani capsule collection comprising clothing, accessories, eyewear, watches, jewellery and fragrances. Giorgio Armani's first RED product will be a pair of Emporio Armani sunglasses (style EA 9285/S). The striking metal wraparound sunglasses, worn by Bono on U2's recent Vertigo World Tour, featuring a single lens available in green, rose, blue, smoke grey, or grey/brown, all embossed with the Emporio Armani RED logo. The forked arms, available in shades of ruthenium, gun metal, and light gold are super imposed on the lens with a futuristic feel. The Emporio Armani RED sunglasses will be available from April in all Emporio Armani stores and in select specialty eyewear stores and department stores worldwide. Pre-orders for the sunglasses can be made by e-mail at emporioarmaniRED@giorgioarmani.it.

Giorgio Armani will present the complete Emporio Armani RED capsule collection later in 2006.

About Product RED

RED is a global initiative whose primary objective is to engage the private sector in the fight against AIDS in Africa by channelling funds from the sale of RED products directly to The Global Fund for AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. Companies whose products take on the RED mark contribute a portion of profits from the sale of that product to the Global Fund to finance AIDS programmes in Africa, with a focus on women and children. Current partners are: American Express, Converse, Gap and Giorgio Armani.

The Armani Group is one of the leading fashion and luxury goods groups in the world today with 4,800 direct employees and 13 factories. It designs, manufactures, distributes and retails fashion and lifestyle products including apparel, accessories, eyewear, watches, jewellery, home interiors, fragrances and cosmetics under a range of brand names: Giorgio Armani, Armani Collezioni, Emporio Armani, AJ | Armani Jeans, A/X Armani Exchange, Armani Junior and Armani Casa. The Group's exclusive retail network currently comprises: 62 Giorgio Armani boutiques, 11 Armani Collezioni stores, 133 Emporio Armani stores, 95 A/X Armani Exchange stores, 18 AJ | Armani Jeans stores, 6 Armani Junior stores, 1 Giorgio Armani Accessori store and 20 Armani Casa stores in 39 countries.

For further information, contact:
Robert Triefus
Giorgio Armani SpA
Tel. + 39 02 723 181
www.armanipress.com

CONVERSE INTRODUCES CHUCK TAYLOR� ALL STAR� AFRICAN MUDCLOTH SHOE TO SUPPORT THE LAUNCH OF PRODUCT RED

Thu, 26 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

1/26/2006

Converse Creates Limited Edition Product To Announce Global Partnership With RED To Help Fight AIDS in Africa

N. Andover, MA (January 26, 2006) - Converse announces today its partnership with Product RED, an economic initiative created by Bono (U2, singer and activist) and Bobby Shriver (Chairman of DATA - Debt, AIDS, Trade, Africa ) designed to deliver sustainable flow of private sector money to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. Converse, recognizing the urgency in the HIV/AIDS epidemic, is donating a percentage of sales of Converse RED product. Every season, Converse and Product RED will collaborate with designers, artists, musicians and filmmakers to inspire originality by creating limited edition Converse RED shoes on a unique canvas that preserves culture and celebrates creativity.

"Red is masterful in its simplicity: the greatest brands in the world enlisted to help with the biggest global emergency of our times. We are proud to be able to lend one of pop culture's most original and globally recognizable icons to assist in this critical endeavor," said Dave Maddocks, Chief Marketing Officer of Converse Inc.

At the cornerstone of this inaugural Converse RED Collection is the Chuck Taylor All Star mudcloth shoe designed with acclaimed UK designer Giles Deacon. Converse was inspired by Nakunte Diarra, a renowned mudcloth artist and storyteller since the 1950's who originates from Mali, to fully understand the art, symbolism and technique of Bogolanfini, a mud-dyed cloth of the Bamana people of Mali. Bogolanfini is
a living art form, constantly changing, reflecting new inspirations, while paying homage to the past. Artists use techniques passed down through generations and motifs, which express the individual style and creativity of the artist, are based on well-known geometric patterns. Bogolanfini is an essential part of the Bamana people's lives, marking major life transitions, marriage, birth, excision and death. The Converse RED mudcloth shoe is an original work of art created to combine fashion and social consciousness to celebrate and preserve African culture and creativity.

The Converse RED Chuck Taylor All Star mudcloth shoe is available in March 2006 in one-of-a-kind mudcloth options in neon orange, neon yellow or neon pink accents. The mudcloth shoe is available in select specialty stores in the United Kingdom and USA and worldwide on converse.com.

As part of a larger Converse RED Collection, Giles Deacon put his sophisticated chic interpretation on Converse's iconic Chuck Taylor All Star, Jack Purcell and the Weapon franchises which will debut in late Spring 2006. Additionally, Converse will broaden the assortment of Converse RED shoes to include core Chuck Taylor All Star selections. Converse RED will officially launch in the United States for Holiday 2006 and will continue to inspire originality and freedom of thought among Converse enthusiasts and beyond.

About Converse

Established in 1908, the Converse brand has built a reputation as "America's Original Sports Company"T and has been associated with a rich heritage of legendary shoes such as the Chuck Taylor� All Star� shoe, the Jack Purcell� shoe and the One Star� shoe. Converse was the first basketball shoe to ever make contact with the court in 1917. Soon after, Converse gained iconic status with the creation of the Chuck Taylor All Star shoe in 1923, which went unmatched through five decades of professional basketball. For
more information, visit Converse on the web at www.converse.com.

About (PRODUCT)RED

RED is a global initiative whose primary objective is to engage the private sector in the fight against AIDS in Africa by channeling funds from the sale of RED products directly to the Global Fund To Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. Companies whose products take on the RED mark contribute a portion of profits from the sale of that product to the Global Fund to finance AIDS programmes in Africa, with a focus on women and children. Current partners are: American Express, Converse, Gap and Giorgio Armani.

For more information contact:

Cheryl Calegari
Converse Inc.
Ph: 646-563-7362
Email: cheryl.calegari@converse.com

R�gine Moylett
RED
Ph: +44 (0) 208 749 7999
Email: regine@rmplondon.co.uk

AMERICAN EXPRESS OFFICIALLY BEGINS THE PRODUCT RED REVOLUTION

Wed, 01 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

3/1/2006

Elle Macpherson launches American Express RED credit card to help fight HIV and AIDS in Africa

London, 1 March 2006 - Elle Macpherson today spent the world's first official (Product) RED1 pound as she launched American Express RED2 at Harvey Nichols. The Australian supermodel shopped at the London department store using American Express RED - the credit card that donates 1% of every transaction to the Global Fund3 to help women and children affected by AIDS/ HIV in Africa.

American Express RED is part of (RED), a revolutionary new business initiative launched by Bono and Bobby Shriver, Chairman of DATA (Debt, AIDS, Trade, Africa), at the World Economic Forum in January to deliver a sustainable flow of private sector money to the Global Fund. As a founding member of (Product) RED, American Express is one of the first companies to develop a bespoke product, launching American Express RED - the membership card of the (RED) community.

Available from today, those spending with American Express RED will be able to play their part in supporting this important cause by simply using their credit card as normal. For every pound spent on the card, American Express will donate a minimum of 1% to the Global Fund. The donation increases to 1.25% for spending above �5000 in any given year, and customers who use their cards in the first month generate an additional �5 donation to the Global Fund.

The fee free credit card, is red plastic with the American Express iconic design. Also, there are additional unique benefits that are tailored to meet the lifestyle needs of Cardmembers. REDdeals give access and value through retail, travel and entertainment offers on a monthly basis. Hand?picked offers and events include tickets to the sold-out Rolling Stones concerts in August and discounts at outlets such as Harvey Nichols' Fifth Floor Restaurant and food store Villandry.

Every three months, REDpass gives one lucky Cardmember an extraordinary, money-can't-buy experience. The first of these is the chance to collaborate with an artist on an original piece of work as part of a once in a lifetime trip to Africa.

Laurel Powers-Freeling, UK Country Manager, American Express said: "We're tremendously excited by the opportunity (RED) offers American Express as a business. In addition to the donation, American Express RED offers a competitive interest rate and some new and interesting benefits --showing that you don't have to sacrifice good value to do good."

For more information or to apply for American Express RED log onto:
AmericanExpressRED.co.uk

1. (Product) RED
- RED is a global initiative whose primary objective is to engage the private sector in the fight against AIDS in Africa by channelling funds from the sale of (RED) products directly to the Global Fund To Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.
- Companies whose products take on the (RED) mark have made a commitment to contribute a portion of profits from the sale of that product to the Global Fund to finance AIDS programmes in Africa, with a focus on women and children.
- Current partners are: American Express, Converse, Gap and Giorgio Armani.

2.About American Express RED
- There will be no annual fee and a competitive rate of 12.9% APR.
- 1% on all eligible spend (goods and services transactions only - fees and ATM transactions for example are excluded) on American Express RED is paid directly to the Global Fund on the Cardmember's behalf.
- Spending above �5,000 per year will generate a donation of 1.25% on all spending above that amount, and an extra �5 will be given to the Global Fund if Cardmembers make their first purchase on the Card within the first month.
- American Express is a world leader in providing charge and credit cards to consumers, small businesses and corporations.
- It is the world's largest travel agency, offering travel and related consulting services to individuals and corporations around the world.

3. The Global Fund
- The Global Fund is the world's leading funder of programmes to fight AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria.
- Created in 2002, the Global Fund has committed over $4.5 billion to life saving programmes in 130 countries and accounts for a quarter of the world's funding for AIDS programmes in the developing world (over 50% for malaria and 65% for tuberculosis).
- Global Fund-financed programs already support nearly half a million people on AIDS treatment and reach tens of millions with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves against HIV infection.
- The Global Fund is a public-private partnership, governed by representatives of governments, the private sector and civil society from all over the world. It allows countries to design and execute their own programs, but provides funds only on the basis of proven results. It is a lean institution with an overhead of less than 3%, ensuring that resources go directly to where they are needed most.
- Currently, most of its funding comes from governments and only 1% comes from the private sector. The Global Fund needs additional resources from all sectors to continue scaling up the support for life-saving work around the world.
- For more information about the Global Fund, visit: www.theglobalfund.org

DO THE (RED) THING

Wed, 01 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

3/1/2006

From today, consumers can shop RED with American Express and Gap to help fight HIV/AIDS in Africa

1 March 2006 - Is it possible to save the world while doing what we enjoy? UK consumers are about to discover that we can have what we want and do some good at the same time. From today, American Express and Gap will launch products carrying the (RED) logo with a portion of profits donated to the Global Fund to help fund programmes in Africa for women and children affected by HIV/AIDS.

American Express RED is an innovative credit card, available from today, that offers free annual membership, and a minimum of 1% on all eligible spend is paid directly to the Global Fund. Also, there are additional unique benefits that are tailored to meet the lifestyle needs of Cardmembers. REDdeals give access and value through retail, travel and entertainment offers on a monthly basis. Hand?picked offers and events include tickets to the sold-out Rolling Stones concerts in August and discounts at outlets such as Harvey Nichols' Fifth Floor Restaurant. For further information, visit www.AmericanExpressRED.co.uk.

Gap has developed a special collection of (RED) items. The first to hit shops is a 100% African-made vintage-style t-shirt in a range of colours, for both men and women priced at �14.50. The t-shirt is launching in all Gap stores in the UK today, with the enhanced collection available in the US and UK from Autumn 2006. 50% of profits from Gap's (RED) T-shirts will go directly to the Global Fund. For further information, email custservuk@gap.com.

(Product) RED has been designed to bring the war on HIV/AIDS to the high street, generating a sustainable flow of money into the Global Fund. Launched by co-founders Bono and Bobby Shriver at the World Economic Forum, products from Converse and Giorgio Armani will be available from April 2006.

- ends-

For more information, contact:
(RED)
Mark Pinnes / Jack Freud
020 7291 6364 / 020 7291 6375
mark.pinnes@freud.com/ jack.freud@freud.com

American Express
Gemma Truman
020 7291 6323
gemma.truman@freud.com

Gap
Anita Borzyszkowska
020 7518 6364
anita_borzyszkowska@gap.com

Dazed and Confused: Celebrate the Launch of (Gap) RED

Wed, 15 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

3/15/2006

London's hottest crowd joined Jefferson Hack at the Groucho last night for the Dazed & Confused party to celebrate the launch of Gap (RED). In support of (RED), Gap has developed a special collection of (RED) items, the first of which is a range of 100% African-made vintage-style t-shirts for both men and women which was launched in the UK only this month. An enhanced collection will be available in the US and UK from autumn 2006. 50% of profits from Gap's (RED) T-shirts will go directly to the Global Fund to invest in AIDS programmes in Africa.

The Groucho was the perfect establishment for such a glamorous and high-octane affair and a wonderfully eclectic mix of guests came to party the night away and show their support for this great new partnership.
There was an array of (RED) inspired cocktails and guests filled the dance floor to the sounds of Trevor Jackson & Wildcat Will.

More than 300 guests attended, including:-
JEFFERSON HACK JASMINE GUINNESS
PEACHES GELDOF SHARLEEN SPITERI
ROLAND MOURET ANITA PALLENBERG
MEREDITH OSTROM RANKIN
LEO GREGORY CAMILLA RUTHERFORD
JADE PARFITT ANNABEL NIELSON
RAZORLIGHT BAY GARNETT
BEN GRIMES BRIAN MOLKO
POPPY DE VILLENEUVE DAISY DE VILLENEUVE
OLIVIA INGE MARGO STILLEY
LISA MOORISH JUNE SARPONG
ROKSANDA VALENTINE FILLOL-CORDIER & JAMIE HINCE
MARK WARREN SERENA REES
BEULAH MAX AKHTAR
MIKE FIGGIS GARETH PUGH
SIR PETER BLAKE LEE STARKEY
JAZZIE B

Where it was:
The Groucho Club
45 Dean Street
London W1

What they ate:

SAVOURY CANAPES:

Finest miniature pork sausages with acacia honey & grain mustard

Seared yellow fin tuna with wasabi & sweet soy

Leek & cep mushroom tartlets

Red onion & goats cheese tarts.

SWEET CANAPES:

Chocolate Valrhona tarts

What they drank:

CHAMPAGNE

Moet

BEER

Krug

COCKTAILS

(RED) EARTH - Stolichnaya red label vodka mixed with coffee and malt flavours

RASPBERRY (RED) - fresh raspberries shaken with Stolichnaya, lemon juice & fromboise, charged with soda.

(RED) & GOLD - Stolichnaya pure Russian vodka with cinamon

Music:
Trevor Jackson
Wildcat Will

For further information please contact Ivana at Purple PR on 020 7434 7024 or ivana@purplepr.com

Converse And Giles Deacon Debut Chuck Taylor� All Star� African Mudcloth Shoe To Support (PRODUCT) RED

Thu, 27 Apr 2006 00:00:00 GMT

4/27/2006

Converse will launch its first global product to support (PRODUCT) RED by launching an exclusive limited edition Chuck Taylor All Star African Mudcloth shoe. Designed in collaboration with acclaimed UK designer Giles Deacon and with only 600 pairs available worldwide - the Converse (RED) Mudcloth shoe is set to be this season's most collectable fashion item.

Converse, in collaboration with Giles Deacon, has designed this unique shoe using authentic African mudcloth as the canvas with contrasting vibrant color options such as neon orange, neon yellow or neon pink details. Blending traditional production methods with modern designs has allowed Deacon to put his sophisticated chic interpretation on the iconic Chuck Taylor All Star shoe.

African mudcloth utilises the technique of Bologanfini, a centuries old process of mud dyed cloth of the Bamana people made by hand-weaving and dyeing the cloth with exotic plant juices, teas and mud. The traditional process creates well-known geometric patterns and colours, which tell stories, reveal secrets and establish social status. Each Converse (RED) Mudcloth shoe is a unique work of art designed to combine fashion and social mindfulness to celebrate and cherish African culture and creativity.

This is the first in a series of exclusively designed shoes. Every season, Converse will collaborate with designers, artists, musicians and filmmakers to create limited edition Converse (RED) shoes on a unique canvas that preserve culture and celebrate inspiration. Depending on the product sold, anywhere from 5% - 15% of net sales from Converse (RED) shoes goes directly to the Global Fund.

The Converse (RED) Chuck Taylor All Star African Mudcloth shoe is on sale in the UK at Selfridges and specialty stores including Offspring and Concept Store at �160.00. 10% of net wholesale sales from the sale of this designer collaboration shoe goes directly to the Global Fund.

For further information please contact
Deborah Croshaw or Katy Wickremesinghe at freud communications
Tel: 0207 2916312 or 0207 291 6385
E-mail: deborah.croshaw@freud.com or katy.wickremesinghe@freud.com

About Converse
Established in 1908, the Converse brand has built a reputation as "America's Original Sports Company" T and has been associated with a rich heritage of legendary shoes such as the Chuck Taylor� All Star� shoe, the Jack Purcell� shoe and the One Star� shoe. Converse was the first basketball shoe to ever make contact with the court in 1917. Soon after, Converse gained iconic status with the creation of the Chuck Taylor All Star shoe in 1923, which went unmatched through five decades of professional basketball. For more information, visit Converse on the web at www.converse.com.

About (PRODUCT) RED
(RED) is a global initiative created by Bono (U2, singer and activist) and Bobby Shriver (Chairman of DATA - Debt, AIDS, Trade, Africa). (RED) was set up to deliver a sustainable flow of private sector money directly to the Global Fund to invest in AIDS programmes in Africa with an emphasis on the health of women and children. Companies whose products take on the (RED) mark contribute a portion of profits from the sale of their product to the Global Fund. Current partners are: American Express, Converse, Gap and Giorgio Armani.

�About the Global Fund
The Global Fund is the world's leading funder of programs to fight AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria. Created in 2002, the Global Fund has committed $4.9 billion to life-saving programs in 131 countries and accounts for a quarter of the world's funding for AIDS programs in the developing world (half for malaria and two-thirds for tuberculosis). Global Fund-financed programs already support nearly half a million people on AIDS treatment, provide over half a million children orphaned by AIDS with medical services, education and community care and reach tens of millions with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves against HIV infection.

The Global Fund is a public-private partnership, governed by representatives of governments, the private sector and civil society from all over the world. It enables countries to design and execute their own programs,
but provides funds only on the basis of proven results. It is a lean institution with operating costs of less than 3%, ensuring that resources go directly to where they are needed most. The Global Fund needs additional resources from all sectors to continue scaling up the support for life-saving work around the world. For more information about the Global Fund, visit: www.theglobalfund.org.

Motorola joins (RED) to help eliminate AIDS in Africa

Mon, 15 May 2006 00:00:00 GMT

�

5/15/2006

Motorola mobile phone users to contribute with each call, text and download as the UK telecommunications industry unites

Consumers can now do the RED thing with BT Mobile, Carphone Warehouse, Fresh, O2, Orange, Tesco Mobile, T-Mobile, Virgin Mobile and Vodafone

Basingstoke, UK - 15 May 2006 - Motorola (NYSE:MOT) today unveils, with the unanimous support of the UK Mobile Industry, (MOTO)RED - the first in a brand new portfolio of mobile handsets created to help eliminate AIDS in Africa.

Launched by co-founders Bono and Bobby Shriver at the World Economic Forum last January, (PRODUCT) RED is designed to deliver a sustainable flow of private sector money to the Global Fund to fight AIDS.

In an unprecedented demonstration of support, mobile operators and retailers from across the UK (BT Mobile, Carphone Warehouse, Fresh, O2, Orange, Tesco Mobile, T-Mobile, Virgin Mobile and Vodafone) have all united behind this initiative.

The first product in Motorola's new (MOTO)RED portfolio was revealed as the ultra slim, ultra chic red MOTOSLVR.

"RED is a 21st century idea. It's an amazing thing that these companies are doing - lending their creativity and financial firepower to the Global Fund's fight against AIDS in Africa, the greatest health crisis in 600 years. I think doing the RED thing, doing good, will turn out to be good business for them," said Bono, co-creator of RED.

"Motorola has been doing business in Africa for more than 30 years, and our support of the Global Fund is one way that we're able to give back to the region. Additionally, with our new red model, MOTOSLVR will help change the way people think about AIDS in Africa. We're literally placing in people's hands an opportunity to help find a solution," said Ron Garriques, president of Motorola Mobile Devices. "Motorola and the retailer partners in the UK are contributing �10 from every red MOTOSLVR handset purchase. And, starting today, our operator partners have agreed to donate to the Global Fund 5% of the monthly revenue generated by each red MOTOSLVR. So, with every call, every text and every download, consumers will be able to make a difference in the fight against AIDS in Africa every day."

Recent figures¹ provided by the Global Fund demonstrate just how significant the individual contribution every new (MOTO) RED connection can make. The proceeds of selling just three handsets can provide a year's worth of school materials and daily hot meals for a child orphaned by AIDS, while 5% of the average yearly phone bill can provide 180 treatments to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV.

The new red MOTOSLVR will be available to purchase in stores throughout the UK from 15 May 2006.

- Ends -
¹ Cost figures are based on a wide range of Global Fund-financed programs in African countries; exact costs in a specific country can vary significantly. For further information, please contact:

Jody Hall 020 7291 6318 or email jody.hall@freud.com
Mark Pinnes 020 7291 6364 or email mark.pinnes@freud.com
Una Kent 07802 365 956 or email una.kent@motorola.com

About Motorola
Motorola is known around the world for innovation and leadership in wireless and broadband communications. Inspired by our vision of Seamless Mobility, the people of Motorola are committed to helping you get and stay connected simply and seamlessly to the people, information, and entertainment that you want and need. We do this by designing and delivering "must have" products, "must do" experiences and powerful networks - along with a full complement of support services. A Fortune 100 company with global presence and impact, Motorola had sales of US$36.8 billion in 2005. For more information about our company, our people and our innovations, please visit www.motorola.com

About (PRODUCT)RED
(PRODUCT)RED's primary objective is to engage the private sector in raising awareness and funds for the Global Fund to help fight AIDS in Africa.
Companies whose products take on the (RED) mark contribute a percentage of the sales from that product to the Global Fund to finance AIDS programmes in Africa, with an emphasis on the health of women and children.
Current partners are: American Express, Armani, Converse, Gap and Motorola.
www.joinred.com

About the Global Fund
The Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria is a unique global public-private partnership dedicated to attracting and disbursing additional resources to prevent and treat HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria. This partnership between governments, civil society, the private sector and affected communities represents a new approach to international health financing. The Fund works in close collaboration with other bilateral and multilateral organizations to supplement existing efforts dealing with the three diseases.

Apart from a high standard of technical quality, the Global Fund attaches no conditions to any of its grants. It is not an implementing agency, instead relying on local ownership and planning to ensure that new resources are directed to programs on the frontline of this global effort to reach those most in need. Its performance-based approach to grant-making is designed to ensure that funds are used efficiently and create real change for people and communities. All programs are monitored by independent organizations contracted by the Global Fund to ensure that its funding has an impact in the fight against these three pandemics, which together kill over 6 million people per year. AIDS alone kills over 3 million people per year.

As of end December 2005, 384,000 people have begun Antiretroviral (ARV) treatment through Global Fund supported programs, which is nearly triple the number of ARV recipients funded by Global Fund resources by the end of 2004. Around half of the Global Fund's financing ($5.2 billion committed to 385 programs in 130 countries) is being spent on medicines, mosquito nets to prevent malaria and other products, while the other half is for strengthening health services. Taken together, Global Fund supported programs to combat malaria expanded distribution of insecticide treated bed nets to 7.7 million. In addition, tuberculosis programs have detected and treated more than one million TB cases through DOTS (Directly Observed Short Course Treatment).
www.theglobalfund.org

GIORGIO ARMANI TO PRESENT HIS SS 2007 EMPORIO ARMANI WOMEN'S SHOW

Tue, 23 May 2006 00:00:00 GMT

5/23/2006

GIORGIO ARMANI TO PRESENT HIS SS 2007 EMPORIO ARMANI WOMEN'S SHOW AT LONDON FASHION WEEK IN FASHION AND MUSIC EVENT CELEBRATING (PRODUCT) REDTM

23 May 2006, MILAN - Giorgio Armani has announced today that he will present his Spring Summer 2007 Emporio Armani fashion show during the next London Women's Fashion Week, on the evening of Thursday, the 21st of September, in a unique fashion music event that will also celebrate the launch of his Emporio Armani (PRODUCT) RED capsule collection. Emporio Armani is one of the five partner brands participating in this pioneering economic initiative launched by Bono and Bobby Shriver last December at the Davos World Economic Forum designed to deliver a sustainable flow of private sector money to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS in Africa.

The event on Thursday 21 September will feature many of Giorgio Armani's friends from the world's of film, music and sport and will be recorded for later television broadcast.

Giorgio Armani said: "London is in many ways the world's most cosmopolitan and influential city as it has become a crossroads for so many of today's cultural references including contemporary art, architecture, the performing arts, literature, food, music, film and fashion. It will be an honour and a privilege to present my Emporio Armani collection at London Fashion Week and at the same time create further momentum for Bono and Bobby Shriver's (RED)^TM initiative."

Hilary Riva, Chief Executive of the British Fashion Council, said: "I am delighted to welcome Mr. Armani and his Emporio Armani women's show to London. Adding such an important designer and what promises to be a unique event to our schedule can only be good news for London Fashion Week. This city is the most innovative and inclusive of the world's fashion capitals, so it is also appropriate that Emporio Armani (PRODUCT) RED should be launched here."

September will also see the re-opening of London's iconic Emporio Armani flagship store and caff� on Brompton Road. The store, which is now closed for a complete refurbishment, was first opened in 1988 and has become an Armani landmark over the years.

In support of (PRODUCT) RED Giorgio Armani is designing a special Emporio Armani (PRODUCT) RED capsule collection comprising clothing, accessories, eyewear, watches, jewellery and fragrances. Giorgio Armani S.p.A. is donating 40% of its gross profit margin from sales of all Emporio Armani (PRODUCT) RED products directly to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS in Africa.

(RED) is a global initiative whose primary objective is to engage the private sector in the fight against AIDS in Africa by channelling funds from the sale of (PRODUCT) RED products directly to the Global Fund. Companies whose products take on the (PRODUCT) RED mark contribute a portion of profits from the sale of that product to the Global Fund to finance AIDS programmes in Africa with a focus on women and children.

Contact: Robert Triefus
Giorgio Armani S.p.A.
Tel: +39 02 723181
www.armanipress.com

NEW GLOBAL FUND GRANT RESULTS SHOW SUBSTANTIAL IMPACT

Wed, 31 May 2006 00:00:00 GMT

5/31/2006

New York - With nearly 400 grants approved to combat HIV/ AIDS, TB and malaria, Global Fund-financed programs are proving that where money is invested, treatment and prevention efforts are working.

Newly-compiled performance results show that as of end April, 544,000 people have begun antiretroviral (ARV) treatment through Global Fund-supported programs-- up from 384,000 six months ago. The new figures show a more than four-fold increase since December of 2004 in the number of people started on ARV treatment with support from the Global Fund.

Taken together, programs providing DOTS (Directly Observed Short Course Treatment) have detected and treated more than 1.4 million cases of tuberculosis worldwide. In addition, Global Fund-supported programs to combat malaria expanded distribution of insecticide-treated bed nets to 11.3 million, up from 7.7 million in December 2005.

Results at a Glance

Intervention	Dec 2004	Dec 2005	June 2006	Increase since Dec 2005
HIV: People on ARV treatment	130,000	384.000	544,000	42%
TB: Cases treated under DOTS	385,000	1 million	1.4 million	43%
Malaria: Insecticide-treated nets distributed	1.35 million	7.7 million	11.3 million	47%

"This latest set of performance figures comes as very good news, particularly this week, when the United Nations is meeting to discuss progress in the fight against AIDS over the past five years," said Richard Feachem, Executive Director of The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. "These results demonstrate that where countries are given the resources they need, progress against this pandemic is possible. It shows that with sufficient global resources, we can drive back this scourge."

Global Fund support for efforts to combat AIDS account for 56 percent of the total US$ 5.4 million committed to date for programs in 131 countries to fight the three diseases. Of the US$ 3 billion allocated to AIDS, half is dedicated to prevention activities while the other half is allocated to treatment.

In 2005, the Global Fund was responsible for an estimated 20 percent of all international funding in support of efforts to combat HIV/AIDS, and approximately two-thirds of global funding for programs against TB and malaria.

Over the past three years, Global Fund financing has enabled nearly 53 countries to change from malaria drugs which have become increasingly ineffective to the new artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT), which has the potential to drastically reduce mortality from malaria among children and pregnant mothers. In some countries, Global Fund grants have also provided blanket coverage of new, long-lasting insecticide-treated bed nets, which afford more durable, effective protection against malaria to vulnerable populations. The roll-out of ACT or other effective combination therapies and bed nets - in combination with targeted insecticide spraying and strengthening of expertise, infrastructure and training - is expected to reduce malaria mortality in large parts of Africa in the coming years.

On average, data compiled shows that grants to combat all three diseases are exceeding targets set out in their respective grant agreements, which serve as the basis of the Global Fund's performance-based grant evaluation. The new results released today represent the aggregation of numbers issued directly from reports on progress by individual grants.

While the new treatment and prevention figures demonstrate the Global Fund's expanding track record in saving lives, raising awareness among vulnerable populations and preventing further infections, the Global Fund's funding gap for years 2006 and 2007 threatens to curtail the momentum of funded programs as well as funding for new rounds of grants.

"New rounds of grants in 2006 and 2007 will provide the opportunity for countries to expand the considerable progress we are seeing against the three diseases, said Carol Jacobs, Chair of the Global Fund Board. "Donors need to make long-term commitments of sufficient resources to enable developing countries to plan for the future with confidence that funding for their lifesaving activities will not trail off."

Expected outcomes of grants approved in Rounds 1 - 5 after five years:

- More than 1.8 million people on antiretrovirals
- 62 million clients reached with voluntary counseling & testing services for HIV
- Over 1 million orphans supported through medical services, education and community care
- 5 million additional tuberculosis cases treated under DOTS treatment strategy
- 264 million artemisinin-based combination treatments for drug-resistant malaria delivered
- 109 million bed nets financed to protect families from the transmission of malaria
- - - - -

The Global Fund is a unique global public-private partnership dedicated to attracting and disbursing additional resources to prevent and treat HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria. This partnership between governments, civil society, the private sector and affected communities represents a new approach to international health financing. The Global Fund works in close collaboration with other bilateral and multilateral organizations to supplement existing efforts dealing with the three diseases.

Apart from a high standard of technical quality, the Global Fund attaches no conditions to any of its grants. It is not an implementing agency, instead relying on local ownership and planning to ensure that new resources are directed to programs on the frontline of this global effort to reach those most in need. Its performance-based approach to grant-making is designed to ensure that funds are used efficiently and create real change for people and communities. All programs are monitored by independent organizations contracted by the Global Fund to ensure that its funding has an impact in the fight against these three pandemics.

Information on the work of the Global Fund is available at: http://www.theglobalfund.org

For further information, please contact:

Rosie Vanek, The Global Fund, Phone: + 41 22 791 5951 Mobile: + 41 79 445 14 85
rosie.vanek@theglobalfund.org

or

Jon Liden, The Global Fund, +41 22 791 1723, Mobile: +41 79 244 6006,
jon.liden@theglobalfund.org

The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria

Chemin de Blandonnet 8, 1214 Vernier, Geneva, Switzerland

Tel: +41 22 791 1700
Fax: +41 22 791 17 01

Gisele and Maasai front American Express RED's bold new Ad campaign

Wed, 23 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT

8/23/2006

American Express� is launching a new advertising campaign, for American Express RED, featuring Brazilian supermodel Gisele Bundchen and a Maasai Warrior from Kenya. Launched earlier this year American Express RED was the first product to join Bono and Bobby Shriver's (RED)^TM initiative, designed to help fight AIDS in Africa.

Styled and photographed by British fashion photographer Nick Knight, the creative focuses on a visually striking image of Gisele with Keseme, a Maasai Warrior resplendent in traditional attire. Striking an exuberant pose, the image encapsulates the power, positivity and hope at the heart of the (RED)^TM campaign.

The compelling image of Gisele and the Maasai cleverly communicates the union of consumerism and conscience, demonstrating how something as simple as everyday shopping can now help fight AIDS in Africa. For every pound spent on the Card, American Express will contribute a minimum of 1% to the Global Fund.

Alison Bain, Head of European Advertising for American Express comments: "This campaign captures the true energy and spirit behind (RED)^TM whilst communicating the unique role the Card can play in enabling consumers to make a real difference. We hope that the image will inspire people to sign up for an American Express RED card today."

Speaking about her involvement in the new ad campaign Gisele said "I think (RED)^TM is an amazing project. Being able to help and change other people's lives is wonderful and truly inspiring. With American Express donating every time consumers spend on the Red Card, it makes you feel less guilty about spending and is a fantastic way to help fight AIDS every day."

Keseme Ole Parsapaet, a Maasai Warrior from Kenya said "AIDS is affecting my community. I think (RED)^TM is great, it is a way of helping the world come together to help fight AIDS."

The image will form part of a major print and outdoor advertising campaign in the UK and will introduce the strapline "My Card. My Life", a spin on the "My Life My Card" end line from the company's current brand campaign . Running from 29th August 2006, the campaign will kick off in a number of landmark outdoor sites across London and will be supported throughout September and October in high end glossy magazines.

GIORGIO ARMANI TO SHOW AT LONDON FASHION WEEK AND TO CELEBRATE THREE FLAGSHIP STORE OPENINGS

Tue, 05 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

9/5/2006

The Armani Group announces that Giorgio Armani will arrive in London on September 19th for a series of events coinciding with the opening of three flagship stores: Emporio Armani at 191 Brompton Road and Armani Casa and Armani Collezioni at 113 - 115 New Bond Street. The climax of his visit will be the unique One Night Only event that he will present on Thursday September 21st at Earl's Court - an INSPI(RED) evening of fashion and music, featuring the Emporio Armani Spring Summer 2007 women's fashion show and the launch of the Emporio Armani (PRODUCT) RED capsule collection. The event will feature many of Giorgio Armani's friends from the worlds of film, music and sport, including Bono and Bobby Shriver - the founders of (PRODUCT) RED - Beyonc�, Leonardo Di Caprio, Alicia Keys, Clive Owen, Ashley Judd, Samuel Jackson, Andrea Bocelli, James Franco, Andriy Shevchenko and more. The event will be filmed by Initial, an Endemol company, for broadcast on the UK's Channel 4 and for worldwide syndication.

The iconic Emporio Armani flagship store and Caff� on Brompton Road, covering 868 square metres, was first opened in 1988 and has become an Armani landmark over the years. Giorgio Armani has decided to celebrate this important occasion by making his first-ever appearance on the London Fashion Week schedule with his Emporio Armani Spring Summer 2007 women's show.

Giorgio Armani said: "I am greatly looking forward to presenting my Emporio Armani women's collection at London Fashion Week. London is one of the world's most vibrant cities, a reference point for all the arts, for architecture, literature, film, music, food, and certainly for fashion. I hope that my three new stores and restaurant will further add to the cosmopolitan culture of the United Kingdom's capital city. The (EMPORIO ARMANI) RED One Night Only event will, I hope, help to create further momentum for Bono and Bobby Shriver's pioneering (PRODUCT) RED TM initiative to help channel funds from the private sector to The Global Fund to fight AIDS in Africa."

Launched by Bono and Bobby Shriver, (PRODUCT) RED is a global initiative whose primary objective is to engage the private sector in the fight against AIDS in Africa by channelling funds from the sale of (PRODUCT) RED products directly to The Global Fund. Companies whose products take on the (PRODUCT) RED mark contribute a portion of profits from the sale of that product to the Global Fund to finance AIDS programmes in Africa with a focus on women and children.

Hilary Riva, Chief Executive of the British Fashion Council, said: "I am delighted to welcome Mr. Armani and his show to London. This city is the most innovative and inclusive of the world's fashion capitals, so it is also appropriate that the Emporio Armani (PRODUCT) RED collection should be launched here. This initiative has been inspirational in its ability to motivate leading brands to unite behind such an important cause."

On Wednesday, September 20th Giorgio Armani will celebrate the opening of London's first Armani/Casa store and a new flagship Armani Collezioni store. Both will be housed in the same building located at 113 -115 New Bond Street and will cover a total area of 1,130 square metres. To celebrate these openings, Giorgio Armani will host a book signing for a specially commissioned Andriy Shevchenko biography entitled SHEVA (to be published by Mondadori Electa on September 29th) that evening in the Armani/Casa store.

A number of companies and brands are supporting the unique One Night Only event including Samsung, which will provide two super-size LED screens in the venue and will host the Armani Press Centre Powered By Samsung; Audi, which will provide 50 of its top range luxury cars for VIP transportation; Grey Goose Vodka and (PRODUCT)RED partners Motorola and American Express.

The Armani Group is one of the leading fashion and luxury goods groups in the world today with 4,900 direct employees and 13 factories. It designs, manufactures, distributes and retails fashion and lifestyle products including apparel, accessories, eyewear, watches, jewellery, home furnishings, fragrances and cosmetics under a range of brand names: Giorgio Armani Priv�, Giorgio Armani, Armani Collezioni, Emporio Armani, AJ | Armani Jeans, A/X Armani Exchange, Armani Junior, Armani Baby and Armani Casa. The Group's exclusive retail network currently comprises: 71 Giorgio Armani boutiques, 12 Armani Collezioni stores, 124 Emporio Armani stores, 97 A/X Armani Exchange stores, 17 AJ | Armani Jeans stores, 6 Armani Junior stores, 1 Giorgio Armani Accessori, 1 Emporio Armani Accessori store and 20 Armani Casa stores in 40 countries.