Trần Tố Nga at the reception. VNAVNS Photo

PARIS – Mayor Pierre Garzon bestowed the title of "Honorary Citizen of Villejuif," the city's highest honour, upon Trần Tố Nga, an 82-year-old French-Vietnamese who has fought tirelessly for justice for millions of Vietnamese Agent Orange (AO)/dioxin victims.

Speaking to a Vietnam News Agency reporter, Garzon said Nga grew up during the war in Việt Nam and has continually fought for peace.

An AO victim herself, Nga has led a historic struggle to make US chemical corporations accountable for the ecological devastation they caused, bringing their actions to light despite countless obstacles.

Nga's efforts have inspired people worldwide, amplifying the voices of those often forgotten in the aftermath of war, he said, adding that recognising her contributions is not just for her, but for the broader struggle for peace and justice, Villejuif shares these profound values with her.

Vietnamese Ambassador Đinh Toàn Thắng affirmed that the honorary citizenship awarded to Nga symbolises the strong solidarity and friendship between Việt Nam and France. This gesture also reflects the compassion and commitment of Villejuif to those who fight for a better and more equitable future.

He underscored the devastating impact of AO/dioxin, with 3 million ha of forests destroyed and 4.8 million people directly affected, suffering from severe illnesses such as congenital disabilities, cancer and neurological disorder. "Thanks to those like Nga, this tragedy is not forgotten", he said.

Although the Paris Court of Appeal upheld the ruling of the Crown Court of Evry City, rejecting Nga's lawsuit, he stressed that the reality of the suffering and the urgency of justice remain unchanged.

According to him, the Vietnamese Government, in collaboration with organisations like the Việt Nam Association of Victims of AO/dioxin, continues to provide financial and medical support for the victims. Decontamination efforts in the most polluted areas, such as Biên Hoà and Đà Nẵng airports, are ongoing with assistance from the US.

He expressed a hope that this distinction will send a powerful message to the world: “The fight for justice continues, and together we can make a difference”. VNS