PANO - When a devastating twin earthquake struck Venezuela, destroying houses and claiming lives, a Vietnamese search-and-rescue (SAR) contingent composed of personnel from the Vietnam People's Army and the People's Public Security traveled more than halfway around the world to assist the South American nation.

Along with rescue equipment, supplies, expertise, and experience, they brought something equally important, which is the compassion, responsibility, and solidarity of the Vietnamese people for those suffering from tragedy.

This was the third overseas humanitarian deployment jointly undertaken by the Vietnam People's Army and the People's Public Security. The contingent has operated in Playa Grande, La Guaira state, the area hardest hit by the earthquake, where numerous high-rise buildings on steep hillsides had collapsed.

Despite the urgent deployment, the long journey, harsh weather, continuing aftershocks, and challenges related to language, local customs, living conditions, and field operations, the Vietnamese personnel have carried out their mission with professionalism, determination, and dedication. Drawing on experience gained from previous international earthquake relief missions, the teams have raced against time, making the most of every hour while working closely with Venezuelan authorities to deploy personnel and equipment for SAR operations.

The teams have successfully recovered many victims from collapsed structures and transferred them to the Venezuelan authorities. Members have also provided medical support and assisted with the relocation of property at disaster sites while ensuring the safety of all personnel. Their efforts have reflected Vietnam's foreign policy, demonstrated the country's commitment to international humanitarian cooperation, enhanced Vietnam's standing in global disaster response, and further strengthened the traditional friendship and Comprehensive Partnership between Vietnam and Venezuela.

Below are photos showing earthquake relief efforts of the Vietnamese SAR contingent in Venezuela.

By Hoang Vu (from La Guaira, Venezuela)

Translated by Chung Anh