Vietnam PM Backs VAVA’s Fight for Justice for AO/Dioxin Victims

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc on August 7 praised the Vietnam Association of Victims of Agent Orange/Dioxin (VAVA)’s efforts in recent years in the fight for justice for the AO/Dioxin victims. PM Phuc made his statement at a meeting with a VAVA delegation led by its president, Army 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 Vietnamese leader noted that the VAVA has made active efforts in demanding justice for those victims affected by AO/Dioxin. The efforts have drawn public attention both at home and abroad calling on the U.S. government to recognize their responsibility and take concrete acts, he emphasized. The VAVA has advised the Communist Party of Vietnam and governmental leaders on formulating special policies for victims and raising public awareness of the effects of the toxic chemical on human health, he added. 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. (Vietnam Plus; VOV; VTV; Bao Tin Tuc - News; Nong Nghiep VN - Vietnam Agriculture; Chinh Phu - Government; Can Tho Aug 7)