(Toronto, Ont.) Federal Health Minister Tony Clement says Canada will spend $45 million toward fighting the spread of HIV and AIDS in Africa.

In a statement at the 17th International AIDS Conference in Mexico City, Clement said the funds will build on the $515 million that Canada has contributed to the international fight against AIDS over the past three years.

He says the latest investment will provide treatment options for those infected with the virus and educate those who are at risk of infection.

The statement says the funds are earmarked primarily for projects in South Africa and Mozambique.