“Canada is pleased to support these innovative projects that will make a real difference in the lives of disadvantaged groups in Vietnam”, said Canadian Ambassador to Vietnam Deborah Chatsis.

The money was channelled through the Embassy’s Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (2011-2012 Programme).

The seven projects will be implemented during the course of 2011 in Hanoi and the provinces of Dien Bien, Lao Cai, Dak Lak and Phu Tho.

Four projects focus on respecting and promoting women’s rights and assisting domestic violence prevention, legal aid for lesbian women, anti-human trafficking of women and children, gender equality and participatory governance.

Three remaining projects are on providing comprehensive care for HIV/AIDS infected ethnic women, ensuring child survival through improved quality and access to health services at grassroots level, and providing access to agricultural extension services.