On Monday, the Da Nang Association of Victims of Agent Orange/Dioxin (DAVA) held a ceremony to commemorate the 60^th anniversary of the Agent Orange disaster in Viet Nam (August 10, 1961 - 2021), summarize 10 years of the ‘For Victims of Agent Orange’ movement, and review its performance in 2021.

Vice Chairman of the Central Committee of Viet Nam Association of Victims of Agent Orange/Dioxin Nguyen Van Khanh (first right) presenting an emulation flag to DAVA representatives. Photo: LE VAN THOM

In his remarks at the ceremony, Vice Chairman of the Central Committee of Viet Nam Association of Victims of Agent Orange/Dioxin Nguyen Van Khanh highly appreciated remarkable achievements that DAVA has gained over the past years. He affirmed that the raising of close to VND150 billion from philanthropists at both home and abroad for victims of AO has clearly demonstrated the enthusiasm, responsibility and dynamism of DAVA and its chapters at all levels in protecting the rights of victims of AO as well as caring for and supporting them.

Vice Chairman Khanh said the model of caring for AO victims in Da Nang, including providing monthly allowances and part-time caring for AO victims, and the building of the Detoxification and Rehabilitation Centre for Victims of AO, has been expanded into many provinces and cities nationwide.

He took the opportunity to ask the Association and grassroots-level chapters to raise public awareness about the consequences of chemical war and overcoming the aftermath of AO disaster, as well as encourage victims of AO to make their great efforts to overcome their difficulties in order to integrate into the community.

Mr Khanh also expressed his thanks to generous donors, and praised the typical individuals for their active involvement in caring, supporting and helping victims of AO.

At the ceremony, DAVA launched a movement to help AO-affected victims celebrate a warm and happy Tet 2022. Immediately after the launch, the Da Nang-based Military Zone 5 High Command, the municipal Labor Federation, and other units and individuals donated a total of VND275 million to victims of AO.

On the occasion, the Association received an emulation flag from the Central Committee of Viet Nam Association of Victims of Agent Orange/Dioxin in recognition of its leading role in the caring for victims of AO in 2021.

Also, 11 individuals were presented with the ‘For Victims of AO’ commemorative medals of the Central Committee of Viet Nam Association of Victims of Agent Orange/Dioxin.

Another 22 groups and individuals were awarded Certificates of Merit from the Da Nang People's Committee and the municipal Fatherland Front Committee, including Da Nang Newspaper, in honour of their active involvement in protecting and supporting victims of AO.

Reporting by LE VAN THOM - Translating by M.DUNG