EFTA01196853.pdf

PO Box 23350 BILL6MELINDA Seattle, WA 98102. USA V 206/709.3100 GATES foundation F 206/709.3180 www.gatesfoundation.org March 9, 2015 IPI — International Peace Institute Attn: Dr. Terje Rod-Larsen, President Freyung 3 1010 Vienna, Austria Dear Dr. Larsen: Thank you for the opportunity to review your proposal for a convening of experts to discuss how we can most effectively address and prevent pandemics. I asked several colleagues to carefully review your proposal, particularly in light of the work we are doing related to Ebola. During this process, I learned that many of the groups in !Pi's proposal are already in discussions with Gates Foundation staff about pandemic preparedness and response in the lead-up to the World Health Assembly and G7, where it will be a key topic. For this reason, as well as the number of high-level meetings our staff have already committed to, we regret that we cannot provide the requested support. However, if IPI moves forward with a convening, please let us know if you would like a Gates Foundation representative to attend. If that is the case, we will do our best — but please understand that scheduling may be an issue given that our teams involved with Ebola and the larger pandemics issue are quite stretched during this time. Again, thank you for thinking of us, and for the opportunity to support your proposed convening. We deeply appreciate the partnership that the foundation has with 1P1 overall but specifically in support of our polio eradication work. Sincerely, eft Amy K. Carte Deputy Director, Family Interest Grants Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation EFTA01196853