PRESS RELEASE

November 3, 2006

U.S. Documentary on HIV/AIDS Launched in Vietnam

The U.S. Embassy Hanoi launched the film “Voices of Hope” today,  Nov. 3, in its first screening in Vietnam.  U.S. Ambassador Michael Marine introduced the film and representatives of the Vietnamese Government, UNAIDS, the World Health Organization and other international organizations attended the special screening.

“Voices of Hope” depicts the dramatic and positive impact of the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) on individuals, families, communities, and highlights efforts of organizations around the world that are united in the fight against HIV/AIDS.  This documentary includes interviews and footage filmed in Vietnam. 

"Since President Bush announced his $15 billion Emergency Plan in 2003, U.S. commitment to turning the tide in the war on HIV/AIDS around the world has been growing ever stronger and steadier,” said U.S. Ambassador Michael Marine in his introduction.  “The voices of hope that you see in the film’s images are powerful and touching, a reminder to us all that many lives depend on our work, and we must work harder and smarter.”

“Voices of Hope” was first screened in August in Washington, D.C.  Senior U.S. government officials and international dignitaries, including the Vietnamese Ambassador to the U.S. Nguyen Tam Chien attended that important event.

Vietnam was selected as one of fifteen PEPFAR focus countries in June 2004.  With nearly $80 million dedicated to Vietnam under PEPFAR to date, the U.S. government is providing much-needed care and treatment, testing and counseling, anti-retroviral drugs, and education.  The program also includes a number of initiatives aimed at fighting stigmatization and discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS.  Ambassador Marine highlighted the important partnership role of Vietnam, observing that, "As a PEPFAR Focus Country, Vietnam has been our stalwart partner, and I commend the government and people of Vietnam for their dedication."

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