U.S. Ambassador Michael W. Michalak Supports Vietnam's “Equality and Integration” Events

December 3, 2007

U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam Michael W. Michalak joined members of the Vietnamese Government to participate in an “Equality and Integration” Event on Sunday, December 2 to commemorate World AIDS Day, the International Day of Disabled Persons, and International Volunteers’ Day.

"This important event provides us with an occasion to reflect upon these important social and health issues that affect us all. It provides us with an opportunity to reflect upon the progress made across Vietnam to achieve our shared goal to realize equality and full participation of disabled people and persons with HIV/AIDS in all aspects of life in Vietnam today, and the significant contribution of the volunteers in the social development around the world," Ambassador Michalak said at the event.

The United States has provided over $43 million to support people with disabilities living in Vietnam, and through the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, or PEPFAR, the United States has provided almost $145 million, working closely with the Vietnamese Ministry of Health and local and international partners to prevent HIV transmission and to provide care and treatment to those living with HIV/AIDS.  This partnership has prevented countless infections, provided life-saving anti-retroviral medication to nearly 12,000 Vietnamese so that they are able to continue making important contributions to society, earn an income and care for their families and children.

Each December, Vietnamese organizations for people with disabilities hold a joint celebration in honor of World AIDS Day (Dec.1), International Day of Disabled Persons (Dec. 3) and International Volunteers’ Day (Dec. 5).