Sanofi-aventis launches new charitable foundation

Sanofi-aventis has created a new corporate foundation which it will use to support its charitable humanitarian activities across the globe.

The new Sanofi Espoir foundation will be chaired by Jean-Francois Dehecq and has been established with the objective of facilitating access to healthcare provisions among the underprivileged.

It will continue the company’s existing socially-responsible global initiatives, including providing emergency aid and helping to combat chronic illness, as well as developing new programmes.

Christopher Viehbacher, chief executive officer of Sanofi-aventis, said the creation of Sanofi Espoir will help to “support the company’s values”.

He added: “Health and solidarity correspond to massive needs in terms of prevention, access and education. The Sanofi Espoir corporate foundation will find its strength in the engagement of all our employees.”

Last week, Sanofi-aventis announced the commencement of a major new clinical trial which will establish the safety and efficacy of its heart disease treatment Multaq.