This change to a higher phase of alert is a signal to governments, to ministries of health and other ministries, to the pharmaceutical industry and the business community that certain actions now should be undertaken with increased urgency.

Mexico is a safe, as well as a beautiful and warmly gracious, place to visit.

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

When you're dealing with new and emerging diseases, you have no idea and you can't predict in advance what would happen.

Pandemic influenza is by nature an international issue; it requires an international solution.

This change to a higher phase of alert is a signal to governments, to ministries of health and other ministries, to the pharmaceutical industry and the business community that certain actions now should be undertaken with increased urgency.

We need to empower women. Give women a voice in the decision-making process. Give women a political voice where they can champion, for their own welfare. And, of course, for us. United Nations - organizations, agencies - we need to do our part.