VAVA AND ABLE CONTINUE THE JOURNEY TO ALLEVIATE THE PAIN OF AGENT ORANGE  

On April 4, 2026, in Los Angeles (USA), the Vietnam Association for Victims of Agent Orange/Dioxin (VAVA) held a meeting to review and sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Association for a Better Life and Education (ABLE), with the participation and witness of Mr. Joey Gatton – Chief Executive Officer of ABLE Western USA, the FASE and associates.

The meeting took place in a sincere and open atmosphere, but above all, with profound empathy. Stories about the victims of Agent Orange – people who still carry the pain that has lasted for generations – made the geographical distance seem nonexistent.

Speaking at the meeting, Lieutenant General Nguyen Huu Chinh – Chairman of VAVA – emotionally stated: “The relationship between Vietnam and the United States is considered a rare and exemplary model in the history of modern international relations, moving from ‘former enemies’ to ‘Comprehensive Strategic Partnerships’.” Within this special context, cooperation for the victims of Agent Orange is the most vivid expression of the spirit of reconciliation, responsibility, and humanity.

At the meeting, VAVA’s representatives shared its continuous efforts in caring for, rehabilitating, and supporting the livelihoods of the victims. However, the consequences of Agent Orange remain severe, requiring long-term, systematic solutions and the concerted efforts of the international community.

Listening to those sharing, ABLE and FASE expressed deep concern and a desire for long-term collaboration with VAVA. Beyond mere sympathy, the parties engaged in frank and specific discussions about practical cooperation solutions: from improving the quality of healthcare programs to convening scientific conferences, mobilizing international resources, and developing sustainable support projects.

An important outcome of the meeting was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between VAVA and ABLE, officially establishing a framework for cooperation in the new phase.

Accordingly, the two sides will focus on several key areas such as: improving the quality of sauna and detoxification programs; developing a number of centers nationwide; enhancing medical equipment for assessment and treatment; holding international scientific conferences; and coordinating in resource mobilization to provide more effective support for victims.

 In particular, both sides agreed to develop a model cooperation project to commemorate the 65th anniversary of the Agent Orange/dioxin disaster in Vietnam, not only providing direct support but also symbolizing international solidarity for justice and compassion.

 The Memorandum of Understanding is not only a cooperation document, but also a heartfelt commitment – ​​a commitment to act together, to share together, and to strive together towards a better future for the victims of Agent Orange.

 From Los Angeles, the handshakes have opened a new journey, the one not only of cooperation, but also of understanding, responsibility, and the belief that: no matter how painful the past was, people can still heal through human kindness.

 International and Scientific Department, Vietnam Association for Victims of Agent Orange/dioxin