Vietnam, China peacekeepers strengthen ties through cultural, sports exchanges in Abyei

With approval from the defense ministries of both countries, Vietnam's Sapper Unit No. 4 joined the Chinese Quick Reaction Force and the Chinese Peacekeeping Military Utility Helicopter Unit in organizing the exchange program, which began on August 4 and will run through August 18.

The program opened with a friendly sports tournament at a training ground in the UNISFA mission area in Abyei, a disputed region between Sudan and South Sudan covering about 10,000 square kilometers.

The competitions include tug of war, badminton, table tennis, and Chinese chess.

Held in an open and energetic atmosphere, the contests have enabled peacekeepers from the two countries to interact, build friendships, and strengthen cooperation.

Lieut. Col. Van Dinh Quy, deputy head of Vietnam's Sapper Unit No. 4, said the sporting events help participants improve their physical fitness while fostering closer ties among peacekeepers serving in Abyei.

Maj. Nguyen Van Thanh, one of the competitors, said that despite the region's hot and windy conditions, the tournament has brought positive energy and a strong sense of camaraderie to everyone involved.

Alongside the sporting events, Vietnamese and Chinese peacekeepers are preparing for a cultural gala featuring traditional performances that showcase the heritage of both countries.

Several performances are being rehearsed jointly by Vietnamese and Chinese peacekeepers, highlighting the spirit of unity and cooperation among personnel serving in the challenging environment of Abyei.

The gala will feature a diverse program ranging from traditional folk music to revolutionary songs.

One of the highlights will be 'mua sap,' Vietnam's traditional bamboo pole dance, performed by local schoolchildren in Abyei alongside Vietnamese and Chinese peacekeepers.

Beyond the sporting events, preparations are also underway for a food festival scheduled for the evening of August 18.

The festival will showcase traditional Vietnamese dishes and beverages, including 'pho,' 'banh mi,' and coffee, in a multinational setting.

Through its sports, cultural, and culinary exchanges, the program is expected to help strengthen solidarity among personnel serving in the UNISFA mission while leaving a positive impression across Abyei.

The activities also help promote the professional and friendly image of Vietnam's peacekeeping force while conveying a message of peace and friendship to the region and the international community.