The award ceremony took place on 24/7 at the Highway base of the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA). Brigadier General Ameer Muhammad Umrani, UNISFA's deputy force commander, emphasized that the medals are a testament to the unit's efforts and achievements during nearly a year of service.
"The Vietnamese troops not only performed their peacekeeping duties exceptionally well but also actively engaged in humanitarian activities for the local community, from road construction and airport repairs to supporting school construction and providing food supplies," he said.
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Brigadier General Ameer Muhammad Umrani presents medals to each member of the unit. Photo: Engineering Unit |
Brigadier General Ameer Muhammad Umrani presents medals to each member of the unit. Photo: Engineering Unit
Abionweng Majith, minister of peace and reconciliation, praised the professionalism and sharing spirit of the Vietnamese forces. "Your presence and dedication have changed the perception of the people towards UNISFA," she said at the ceremony.
Representing the unit, Lieutenant Colonel Pham Van Hao, commander of the No. 3 Engineering Unit, affirmed that the medals symbolize the quiet dedication and pride of each peacekeeper, as well as of the Vietnamese army and nation.
After the ceremony, the delegates enjoyed a friendly banquet featuring traditional Vietnamese cuisine.
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Members of the No. 3 Engineering Unit pose for a photo with UNISFA leadership. Photo: Engineering Unit |
Members of the No. 3 Engineering Unit pose for a photo with UNISFA leadership. Photo: Engineering Unit
The No. 3 Engineering Unit, comprising 184 members, arrived in Abyei in 9/2024. Despite challenging conditions and security instability, the unit upgraded key roads, maintained the helicopter airport, repaired schools, and provided medical and food support to residents, especially teachers and students.
Abyei is a disputed territory between Sudan and South Sudan. Vietnam began deploying engineering units to UNISFA in 5/2022. By 5/2025, over 1,100 Vietnamese personnel have participated in peacekeeping missions in three locations: Central African Republic, South Sudan, Abyei, and at UN headquarters.
Son Ha
