The donation funded by the Japanese government and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) includes supplies such as soap and hand-sanitiser, and medical equipment such as temperature screening, contactless thermometers and disinfection sprayers.

The donation funded by the Japanese government and IOM for Quang Tri province include essential hygiene supplies such as soap and hand-sanitizer, and medical equipment such as temperature screening thermographic, contactless thermometers and disinfection sprayers

The consul-general of Japan to Danang, Yakabe Yoshinori, welcomed the recent deliveries, highlighting Japan’s ongoing support for Vietam’s safe resumption of international travel.

“The Japan government supports the IOM’s ongoing efforts to assist frontline workers working at entry points by equipping frontline workers with necessary skills for COVID prevention and control and providing personal protective equipment and other essential supplies,” said consul-general Yakabe said.

As part of the $1.6 million support of the Japanese government, IOM has supported the Vietnamese government’s safe resumption of international travel by enhancing public health capacity at Points of Entry (POE) of six land-border crossings throughout Vietnam and five international airports (Noi Bai, Danang, Cam Ranh, Tan Son Nhat, and Phu Quoc airports). It is estimated that 400 frontline officials, 50 government officials and 3000 citizens have benefited directly from this project.

“The equipment supported by the government of Japan is a practical contribution to strengthen Vietnam’s border capacity post-COVID,” said IOM chief of mission Park Mihyung.

“The pandemic brought into focus the vital role that migration play in our societies, and the need for more effective mechanisms that both protects and empowers migrants as important members of our communities. As Vietnam has successfully reopened the borders, our challenge is to continue supporting safe movements of people, especially those who travel overseas to work, ensuring that they are provided with accurate information, empowered to make informed decisions, and protect themselves from the risks when working overseas,” Park added.

Earlier this year, IOM also introduced health handbooks for Vietnamese migrant workers living in Japan and the Republic of Korea, which provide basic information, advice, and guidance for health needs of migrant workers.

IOM is working closely with the Ministry of Health and local authorities to ensure that migrants have access to essential health services and leave no one behind, especially in the 'new normal' phase in Vietnam.