For the first time in history, we can track the evolution of a pandemic in real-time... Influenza viruses are notorious for their rapid mutation and unpredictable behaviour.

The multiple roles that women can play in a society if given the opportunity is really a tremendous asset.

I think U.N. organizations are important organizations. They exist for good reasons. And we also admit that there is room for us to improve the way we do business. The WHO will be a very positive and proactive partner in the overall U.N. reform, which is also important.

...we hope to stop the transmission in six to nine months

I have a reputation for being a straight-talker.

The international community should treat this as a window of opportunity to ramp up preparedness and response.

After all it really is all of humanity that is under threat during a pandemic.