President Barack Obama emphasized the importance of a strong government commitment to scientific research in response to the flu virus outbreak that has resulted in a US public health emergency. In a speech to the National Academy of Sciences, Obama called for allocating 3 percent of gross domestic product to scientific research, pointing out that the ability to effectively address public health challenges relies heavily on the efforts of the scientific and medical community. Obama stressed the need for the nation to prioritize science and research to prevent falling behind in addressing such crises. Obama reassured the public that the cases of swine flu in the US were not a cause for panic, but the government was closely monitoring the situation. The administration deemed the declaration of a public health emergency as a precautionary measure. The flu has resulted in 149 deaths in Mexico and has spread to North America and Europe. While no deaths have occurred outside of Mexico, concerns about a potential pandemic have been raised. Obama cited the space race between the US and the Soviet Union in the 1950s and 1960s as an example of the importance of investing in research, noting that science spending as a percentage of GDP has declined since then. Obama stated that by aiming to spend more than 3 percent of GDP on science, the United States will not only reach but surpass the levels seen during the peak of the space race. This goal includes both public and private funding, with the US currently spending 2.66 percent of GDP on research and development. Part of the increased spending is from the economic stimulus package signed by Obama in February, and in his proposed fiscal 2010 budget, he is seeking to make tax credits for business investment in research and development permanent. The White House is highlighting Obama's achievements as he approaches the 100-day mark of his presidency, including his proposals to address global climate change. Obama described breaking dependence on fossil fuels as the current generation's challenge. The administration has also started a two-day meeting of major world economies on climate change, with a goal to reduce US emissions by around 15 percent by 2020 through a cap-and-trade system. This proposal is a key component of a bill being considered in Congress. Republicans have been critical of the cap-and-trade system, labeling it as an indirect energy tax. Additionally, some moderate Democrats share concerns about the plan's potential negative effects on jobs and the economy.