Arriving in Hangzhou for the culmination of their pre-season Asian tour, Man United stars Dimitar Berbatov, Michael Carrick, Director Phil Townsend and Man United Foundation CEO John Shiels joined UNICEF to highlight the vital role of education in preventing the spread of HIV among young people in the afternoon on July 25.

Joining school children for a fun and interactive session, the players took part in activities and games designed to equip children with crucial skills to prevent HIV and AIDS. The players also had a chance to talk with youngsters about their lives and experiences.

Manchester United players take part in games with schoolchildren in Hangzhou

According to statistics, young people aged 15 to 24 accounted for 45 percent of all new HIV infections in 2007, and in China the number of new HIV infections is rising by 30 percent each year.

UNICEF's representative in China, Dr. Yin Yin Nwe, speaks highly of Manchester United's role in helping UNICEF preventing the spread of HIV.

"We are indeed fortunate to have such a powerful sports team working for the world's children and especially children in China. Manchester United has shown its concern and care for children affected by HIV-AIDS in China, and also become donors to our program, providing 230,000 British pounds over the last three years."

UNICEF Representative to China Dr. Yin Yin Nwe talks about Manchester United's role in helping UNICEF preventing the spread of HIV.

The visit is the latest event in the pioneering ten year "United for UNICEF partnership", and highlights Manchester United's continuing commitment to UNICEF's "Unite for Children, Unite against AIDS" global campaign.

The United closed their Asian tour with an 8:2 win on July 26 before leaving for Germany.

(China.org.cn by Xiang Bin, July 27, 2009)