Minister of Foreign Trade and Tourism José Reyes Llanos attended a recognition ceremony called “Oportunidades con valor” on March 21, as part of World Down Syndrome Day. The event was led by President of the Council of Ministers Luis Enrique Arroyo Sánchez and Minister of Women and Vulnerable Populations Edith Pariona Valer, with participation from Mercedes Villalobos Manrique, president of the National Council for the Integration of Persons with Disabilities (CONADIS).
The ceremony took place at the auditorium of the Ministry of Women and Vulnerable Populations and was organized by CONADIS. It brought together 21 young people with Down syndrome who have become examples in inclusion and independent living, showing progress in personal, academic, and professional areas. The event highlighted their talent, autonomy, achievements, as well as the commitment shown by their families and rights advocates.
World Down Syndrome Day is observed every March 21 following a United Nations General Assembly resolution to promote awareness and respect for the rights of people with this condition. In Peru, more than 28,000 people with Down syndrome are registered in the National Registry for Persons with Disabilities maintained by CONADIS. This figure underscores the ongoing need to advance public policies aimed at equal opportunities and reducing gaps.
The Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism reaffirmed its commitment to building a more inclusive society. The ministry emphasized the importance of creating opportunities without discrimination and recognizing everyone’s contribution to national development.
