Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is playing host to world leaders in Montreal, in town for a global initiative to fight HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis.
The Global Fund wants to raise $13 billion to fight those diseases with a goal to eradicate them by 2030.
It admits that both goals are ambitious, but notes that Canada has already pledged $785 million toward fighting diseases over the next three years.
"Gone are the days of isolationism," said Trudeau.
"This replenishment conference is a pivotal moment for our global community. A challenge of this magnitude requires a united, sustained commitment."
The United States has raised $4.3 billion for the fund. The money will go towards treatment, vaccines, prevention and creating sustainable health care systems.
“Health security depends on poverty elevation, food security and even climate change management,” said Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
In a bid to encourage youth to participate in the worldwide challenge the Global Fund is hosting a concert Saturday night where Metric, Usher, and other bands will perform.
Bono of U2 and Bill Gates will also host a round table meeting to discuss what Canadians can do to fight poverty, especially that affecting women.
"Our societies cannot succeed without the full participation, and empowerment, of women and girls," said Trudeau.
Women and girls are often on the front lines of fighting diseases and therefore most at risk.
The Global Fund intends to push for more gender equality in terms of care and treatment.
“We have to work to strengthen their resilience so that they can be the first responders that they are,” said HRH Princess Sarah Zeid of Jordan.
United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon spoke on Thursday about a UN panel report about generic drugs.
He said he wants drug makers and governments to make changes to intellectual property laws so cheaper medication would be allowed on the market sooner.
