Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Ito Naoki and representatives of IOM and FAO conducted a field visit to Ha Tinh on April 3 to review the progress of the project, which is being implemented in four Vietnamese provinces.

Funded by the Japanese government with a budget of US$1.5 million, the project is jointly carried out by IOM, FAO and the Government of Vietnam. It aims to enhance the capacity of Tuyen Quang, Ha Tinh, Dong Thap and An Giang provinces to prevent, detect early and respond to public health emergencies.

The initiative is expected to benefit nearly two million people, including professionals in the human and animal health sectors, while contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals on universal health coverage. Coordination mechanisms have also been strengthened through simulation exercises to improve preparedness for potential disease outbreaks.

Speaking during the field trip, Japanese Ambassador Ito Naoki highlighted the growing global risks posed by emerging infectious diseases, including avian influenza, and stressed the need for stronger integration between human, animal and environmental health systems.

“The One Health approach aims to build a more resilient public health system, not only by treating diseases but also by identifying and addressing their root causes,” he said.

He reaffirmed Japan’s continued support for strengthening Vietnam’s health system through the One Health approach, which promotes coordinated action across sectors.

During the visit, the delegation worked with local authorities, observed project implementation and engaged with frontline health and veterinary staff.

Kendra Rinas, Chief of Mission of IOM in Vietnam, said the organisation was committed to supporting Vietnam and Japan in building resilient health systems that are responsive to migration dynamics.

She highlighted the importance of multisectoral preparedness and response. “Through the One Health approach, we can better prevent and control infectious diseases, especially in border areas such as Ha Tinh, where risks can escalate quickly without coordinated action,” Rinas noted.

As part of the visit, the delegation handed over 450 items of medical equipment to 25 community health facilities affected by severe storms in 2025, helping strengthen local healthcare service capacity. They also visited livestock farms applying enhanced biosecurity measures to reduce the risk of zoonotic disease transmission.

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