2011-06-13

Sanofi-aventis and its employees Donate to Tohoku Pacific Earthquake Relief Fund

  • Donation of 1 million Euros to support aid relief efforts
  • Donations of essential medicines
  • Worldwide call for employee donations matched by sanofi-aventis

Sanofi-aventis will donate 1 million Euros to support the aid relief efforts of the Japan Red Cross through the Sanofi Espoir Foundation for the Tohoku Pacific Earthquake and Tsunami that struck the area on March 11, 2011. Additionally, an appeal for generosity has been launched across all countries and affiliates worldwide, inviting employees who wish to join in this solidarity effort. All donations from employees will be matched by the Group.

“We are saddened by the magnitude of the tragedy that has struck Japan and touched people throughout the world. We would like to express our heart-felt sympathy to the Japanese people and our deepest respect for their dignity and courage during the unprecedented tragedy facing the country,” said Christopher A. Viehbacher, Chief Executive Officer, sanofi-aventis. “Sanofi-aventis and its employees consider it our responsibility as a worldwide diversified healthcare leader to respond to the essential health requirements of the victims.”

Sanofi-aventis has called on the generosity of its employees worldwide to support the cause. The resulting donations will be supplemented by the Group. For each donated euro, the Group will donate an additional euro, multiplying by two the available fund. The Sanofi Espoir Foundation is in regular contact with humanitarian agencies, as the situation evolves. Sanofi-aventis has decided to support the rescue teams, doctors and nurses of the Japanese Red Cross.

In Japan, sanofi-aventis K.K., under the leadership of Jez Moulding, Senior Vice President, Japan and Pacific Region & General Manager, Japan, will make a donation from employees that will be matched by the company.

Sanofi-aventis has taken prompt action to provide an emergency supply of essential medicines, such as insulin, since the first days of the crisis for the most devastated area. The company is working with the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare and the Japan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association to assess medical support and pharmaceutical donation needs as part of the disaster relief programme. Donations of essential medicines will be made in accordance with the authority’s request and sanofi-aventis will continue to seek for the opportunity for any support.

Sanofi-aventis has five sites in Tokyo, Osaka and Kawagoe Factory and 16 sales offices with more than 3,000 employees In Japan. As of today, all employees of sanofi-aventis are safe and secure. Support and assistance is provided to those who have been impacted, such as emergency accommodations.

Information about the company: Sanofi AB

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