Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc and representatives of the Vietnam Association of Victims of Agent Orange/Dioxin. (Source: VNA) Hanoi (VNA) – Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc on August 7 spoke highly of the Vietnam Association of Victims of Agent Orange/Dioxin (VAVA)’s efforts in recent years to protect the rights of the victims and raise fund for them.
During a meeting with a VAVA delegation led by its president, Sen. Lt. Gen. Nguyen Van Rinh, in Hanoi on the occasion of the 57th anniversary of the Day for AO/Dioxin Victims (August 10, 1961), the Government leader also noted that the association has made active efforts in demanding justice for those affected by AO/Dioxin.
The efforts have drawn public attention both at home and overseas calling on the US Government to recognize their responsibility and take concrete acts, he stressed, adding that VAVA has also advised Party and governmental leaders on formulating special policies for victims and raising public awareness of the effects of the toxic chemical on human health.
The PM said he wants local Party committees and authorities to work alongside with businesses to provide aid for the victims and help them integrate into the society in the time ahead. He also voiced hope that VAVA will continue keeping their good work to overcome difficulties and fulfill their tasks.
Rinh, for his part, thanked the Party, State and Government for the support given to the AO/Dioxin victims over the past years.
It was estimated that about 4.8 million Vietnamese people were exposed to AO/Dioxin and there have been fourth-generation victims, many of who have to struggle every day to make ends meet. Some 350,000 victims and their children are receiving financial support monthly.
As of March 2018, the association had raised more than 1.7 trillion VND (73.1 million USD) to build 25 support centres and houses for them and award their children with scholarships. –VNA
VNA
