The event welcomed numerous international guests representing the UN Peacekeeping Mission in Abyei, troop-contributing countries at the Mission, local authorities, and the entirety of Viet Nam’s Engineering Unit Rotation 3, along with a Working Delegation of the Ministry of National Defence and the Ministry of Public Security.
Following a solemn flag-salute ceremony and introductions, Lieutenant Colonel Pham Van Hao, Commander of the Viet Nam Peacekeeping Force in Abyei, delivered an emotional speech recalling the glorious milestones of the August Revolution and National Day on September 2.
Continuing the proud traditions of the nation, representatives of Viet Nam’s peacekeeping force affirmed the unit’s determination to fulfil its assigned tasks with excellence, thereby contributing to enhancing Viet Nam’s position in the international arena.
During the ceremony, delegates watched documentary films about the success of the August Revolution, National Day on September 2, and Viet Nam’s strong development under the wise leadership of the Communist Party of Viet Nam.
Speaking at the event, leaders of the Abyei Administrative Area and the Commander of the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Abyei expressed their admiration for the glorious history of the Vietnamese nation and highly appreciated the positive contributions of the Viet Nam peacekeeping force to the mission and the local community.
In his speech, Brigadier General Ameer Muhammad Umrani, Deputy Commander of the Military Force of the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Abyei, stated: “Eighty years ago, Viet Nam declared independence. This not only demonstrated the nation’s strength but also its resilient spirit of independence. Since then, Viet Nam has become widely known around the world, not only for its heroic past but also for its rapid development.
Viet Nam has made significant contributions to peacekeeping operations worldwide. Viet Nam’s peacekeeping engineering unit in Abyei is one such example. Viet Nam has not only made important contributions to the peace process at the mission but has also built warm and respectful relationships with the local people and authorities. This has greatly contributed to the overall success of the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Abyei.”
Charles Abyei Jok, Head of the Abyei Administrative Area, expressed his delight at the opportunity to attend the celebration to congratulate and extend thanks to Viet Nam: “I deeply respect the struggles you have endured to protect your Fatherland. On behalf of the people of Abyei, I sincerely thank Viet Nam’s peacekeeping force for your contributions to our community. We hope to continue receiving your support in the future. Once again, I would like to congratulate you on the 80th anniversary of the National Day of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam.”
As a servicewoman honoured to participate in a second peacekeeping mission, Senior Lieutenant and Professional Soldier Vu Phuong Uyen shared: “It is truly difficult to fully express my emotions right now. Today’s ceremony is so special. In the heart of distant Africa, while we are carrying out our mission, to be able to celebrate National Day together, to see the red flag with the yellow star flying high, to hear songs praising our homeland — we feel immensely proud. I was also very touched to see our international friends wearing scarves bearing the words ‘I love Viet Nam’ at the ceremony. We understand that every action, every daily task we perform here contributes to building the image of a peace-loving Viet Nam that is responsible towards the international community.”
Within the programme, delegates enjoyed martial arts performances, cultural shows, visited exhibitions of books, photos, ethnic costumes, and handicrafts produced by officers and staff of Engineering Unit Rotation 3. In particular, the food corner showcasing traditional Vietnamese dishes attracted large numbers of visitors, creating a colourful cultural and culinary celebration.
The ceremony was not only an important political event but also a cultural festival, spreading the image of a peace-loving, hospitable and resilient Viet Nam to international friends.
