Far from home, the event became a bridge connecting cultures, promoting the image of a heroic, humanistic, and responsible Vietnam to international friends.
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Lt. Gen. Duy Van Son speaks at the event. |
Song of peace
Through vivid images of national flags, flowers, and familiar songs from home, the festive spirit of Vietnam’s National Day spread warmly among members of the Vietnamese working group at MINUSCA. Vietnamese blue-berets joined hands to create a solemn and heartfelt ceremony.
The event was not only an opportunity for Vietnamese peacekeepers to recall the nation’s history but also a bridge for international colleagues at MINUSCA to better understand Vietnam’s 80-year journey of independence and freedom.
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International friends send congratulations to Vietnamese blue-berets on National Day. |
The presence of MINUSCA’s leadership, representatives of the European Union Training Mission in the Central African Republic (EUTM RCA), along with more than 80 international officers and staff, created a spirit of solidarity and a shared aspiration for a world of peace, stability, and freedom from conflicts so peacekeepers everywhere may soon complete their missions and reunite with their families.
In his opening remarks, Lieutenant Colonel Duy Van Son, Head of Vietnam’s Peacekeeping Force in the Central African Republic and Head of the Working Group, affirmed that “Wherever we are, every Vietnamese peacekeeper always upholds the heroic traditions of the nation, promotes the qualities of Uncle Ho’s soldiers, and contributes actively to international peace, stability, and development.”
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Maj. Gen. Nicolae-Gabriel OROS, at the event |
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Maj. Gen. Maychel Asmi joins the event. |
Major General Maychel Asmi, Deputy Force Commander of MINUSCA, expressed admiration for Vietnam’s history, stating that “Vietnamese peacekeeping officers are carrying forward that proud tradition with dedication and responsibility here at MINUSCA.” Meanwhile, Major General Nicolae-Gabriel Oros, Force Commander of the EUTM RCA, highlighted his impression of the humility and solidarity of the Vietnamese peacekeepers, saying it helped him better understand a friendly, peace-loving Vietnam.
Cultural bridge
During the event, traditional dishes such as spring rolls, fresh pho rolls, and lotus seed sweet soup were served, bringing the taste of Vietnam to international friends. A lively Kahoot quiz on Vietnam added a special highlight, enthusiastically welcomed by all guests. Through questions on history, geography, and culture, participants learned more about a heroic, traditional, and dynamic Vietnam. The joyful laughter and cheers created a close-knit, festive atmosphere.
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International friends joyfully take part in games at the event. |
Kuenzang from Bhutan, the quiz winner, said that he had learned about Vietnam through books and newspapers, but the game gave him even more fascinating insights and made him love Vietnam more.
Alongside cultural exchanges, the Vietnamese working group organized a charity activity at a center for orphans in Bimbo town, presenting gifts such as books, notebooks, and essential supplies to disadvantaged children. The compassionate gestures of Vietnamese blue-berets left a lasting impression on, deeply appreciated by local people.
Translated by Mai Huong