The Vietnamese Ministry of National Defense held a ceremony on January 2 to present the decisions of the State President to eight military officers who will join the United Nations peacekeeping missions in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) and South Sudan (UNMISS).

Lieutenant General Hoang Xuan Chien, Deputy Minister of National Defense, presided over the ceremony. The eight officers were selected from various military units, including the Navy, Air Defense - Air Force, Communications Corps, Hanoi Capital Command, Political Academy, and Army Officer School 1.

Eight Vietnamese officers depart for peacekeeping missions in the Central African Republic and South Sudan. Photo: Đai Bieu Nhan Dan

According to Maj. Gen. Pham Manh Thang, Director of the Vietnam Peacekeeping Department, the country has made significant contributions to peacekeeping, with nearly 1,100 personnel serving in UN missions to date. In addition, Vietnam continues to expand its commitment, with plans to establish an Engineering Team 4 and a Level 2 Field Hospital 7 in 2025.

Lt. Gen. Hoang Xuan Chien, Deputy Minister of Defense, praised Vietnam's significant efforts to increase women's participation in peacekeeping operations, in line with the UN Security Council's gender balance strategy. This commitment reflects Vietnam's growing role in international peacekeeping and its determination to maintain global peace and security.

Deployed officers are expected to maintain the highest standards of professionalism and safety throughout their mission. Lt. Gen. Chien said they must strictly abide by Vietnamese and host country laws while serving as ambassadors for their nation. Beyond their peacekeeping duties, they have the responsibility to project Vietnam internationally through their conduct and performance.

In addition, officers must exhibit flexibility in a multicultural setting while upholding a high level of team unity. These standards highlight their diplomatic responsibility in representing Vietnam on the international scene in addition to their military responsibilities.

Since the mission coincides with the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, Lt. Gen. Chien revealed that peacekeepers can communicate with their families during the holiday season.