AstraZeneca Annual Report and Form 20-F Information 2008

Engaging at an international level

As part of our focus on TB, we actively engage in international efforts to help in the fight against this devastating disease. In some cases, our external collaboration specifically supports our own research effort by providing opportunities for gaining valuable external input and sharing of best practice.

During 2008, we helped fund and participated in the third Open Forum on Key Issues in TB Drug Development, organised by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Global Alliance for TB Drug Development, Treatment Action Group and the Stop TB Partnership Working Group on New Drugs. The meetings are designed to bring together TB drug developers, regulators and other interested stakeholders, such as TB care providers, public health policy-makers, and community advocates. The agenda is focused on addressing key issues in the discovery, development and registration of new TB treatments.

We also stepped up our involvement with the Stop TB Partnership during 2008. AstraZeneca is now a member of its International Board, which provides leadership and direction and monitors the implementation of agreed policies and plans.