More than 2,000 disabled people gathered at a meeting in response to the International Day for Persons with Disabilities (Dec. 3) in Hanoi on Nov. 27.
Addressing the meeting, Deputy Minister of Labour, War Invalids and Social Affairs, Dam Huu Dac said Vietnam has 6.7 million disabled people, accounting for 7.8 percent of total population.
The enforcement of the Law on People with Disabilities, which will take effect on January 1, 2011, shows the consideration of Party and State to them and a vivid action affirming Vietnam’s commitment to the Convention for the Rights of Person with Disabilities, he said.
The law and guiding documents will also create a better environment for the disabled, helping them to take part in social activities and integrate into the community equally and enjoy improved spiritual and material life, he added.
US Ambassador to Vietnam Michael Michalak spoke highly of Vietnam government’s efforts in cooperating with international partners, including the US, to boost supporting activities, improve position of the disabled and ensure that they will have an equal chance to take part in every aspect of life.
The organising board presented 10 wheel chairs to the disabled people.
This year’s theme is “Mainstreaming Persons with Disabilities in the Millennium Development Goals towards 2015 and Beyond.”/.
