January 31, 2026 | 16:20 (GMT+7)
Defense leader asks for mobilization of all resources to support AO victims
PANO - On January 30, a delegation of the Central Military Commission and the Ministry of National Defense, led by Deputy Defense Minister Sr. Lt. Gen. Hoang Xuan Chien, visited and extended Lunar New Year (Tet) greetings to the Vietnam Association for Victims of Agent Orange (AO)/Dioxin (VAVA).
In 2025, the association strengthened its guidance to all levels of the association to promote their supervisory and consultative roles in the implementation of policies for people who participated in the resistance war and were exposed to toxic chemicals, in accordance with regulations.
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Sr. Lt. Gen. Hoang Xuan Chien speaks at the event. |
The association and its affiliates enhanced communication and resource mobilization to support AO victims and their families. Key efforts included providing gifts, housing, and livelihood support to help victims stabilize their lives and integrate into the community. The group also focused on legal advocacy for justice and international cooperation in addressing chemical consequences. Additionally, the association hosted regional experience-sharing conferences across 26 northern provinces, organized the "Agent Orange – Conscience and Justice" exhibition, and co-produced the "Towards the Dawn" live television program marking the 64th anniversary of the disaster.
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Sr. Lt. Gen. Hoang Xuan Chien hands over gifts from the Central Military Commission and the Ministry of National Defense to VAVA. |
During the year, the Association hosted over 60 international delegations, bolstering foreign relations and securing global support for victim care. Public diplomacy and justice initiatives were conducted through innovative methods aligned with State foreign policy, enhancing the Association's international standing. Additionally, the Association effectively managed the AO/dioxin Victims Fund.
Congratulating the Association on its achievements ahead of Tet, Gen. Chien wished members and their families health and happiness, encouraging them to overcome challenges and integrate into the community.
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Gen Chien, his entourage, and VAVA leadership in a group photo |
The defense leader urged VAVA to renew its operations and expand outreach regarding Vietnam’s AO disaster. He encouraged the association to garner international support and mobilize domestic and foreign resources for victims.
On this occasion, Gen. Chien presented gifts from the Central Military Commission and the Ministry of National Defense to the VAVA Central Committee.
Translated by Mai Huong