AstraZeneca Vietnam and officials from the Mekong Delta’s Can Tho city signed an agreement on November 14 formalizing a partnership in projects to improve community health and establish a lasting healthcare system. The agreement delineates a five-year plan spanning 2023 to 2028, concentrating on disease prevention, early detection of medical issues, research, and the development of a lasting healthcare system.

In his address at the ceremony, Mr. Tran Viet Truong, Deputy Secretary of the Can Tho City Party Committee and Chairman of the Can Tho City People’s Committee, said that to pursue the objective of providing healthcare coverage for all citizens, which is an integral part of the government’s commitment to sustainable development, it is essential to bolster investment resources and improve capacity and operational effectiveness within Vietnam’s healthcare system as well as the healthcare sector in Can Tho. “This will ensure the provision of high-quality healthcare services that meet the healthcare needs of the population residing within the city and the Mekong Delta region,” he said.

Adding that the agreement marks a significant milestone in establishing a trustworthy and cooperative partnership between the two parties, he commended AstraZeneca Vietnam for its valuable initiatives and efforts in benefiting the city, and expressed confidence that, following the signing of the agreement, city authorities and the company will diligently implement its provisions in line with objectives.

“Following our earlier agreement with the Ministry of Health, I am thrilled to see our partnership with Can Tho city flourish today,” said Mr. Nitin Kapoor, Chairman and General Director of AstraZeneca Vietnam. “We are wholeheartedly dedicated to supporting Can Tho city’s efforts to look after its residents’ health. Together, we will work to improve the skills of healthcare workers, aiding the growth and global engagement of Can Tho’s healthcare sector and the broader Mekong Delta area.”

Under the agreement, AstraZeneca and Can Tho city will cooperate to enhance community health and establish a resilient healthcare system. This partnership focuses on educating the public about diseases and boosting healthcare quality in various areas, including cancer and respiratory, cardio-renal-metabolic, immunology, and rare diseases. Notable joint efforts will include the “Healthy Lung” program (2024-2026) to better diagnose and treat respiratory conditions and lung cancer; the “CAREME - Love Yourself” program to support cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic health; the “MUPS Academy” program to improve gastrointestinal disease management; and a joint initiative with Can Tho Oncology Hospital on cancer care.

These programs, along with efforts to increase healthcare access and sustainable practices, aim to benefit not only Can Tho city but also the broader Mekong Delta region. The cooperation underscores AstraZeneca’s commitment to public-private partnerships for enhancing Vietnam’s healthcare.