Vietnam Enhances UN Peacekeeping Contributions, Boosting Global Presence

Vietnam is strengthening its contributions to United Nations peacekeeping operations (PKO), recently deciding to dispatch its Level-2 Field Hospital and an Engineering Unit. These units will be engaged in UN peacekeeping missions in South Sudan and Abyei, respectively. On September 23, 2024, a C-17 transport aircraft of the Royal Australian Air Force arrived in Hanoi to carry Vietnam's Level-2 Field Hospital Rotation 8 to South Sudan. The Ministry of National Defence held a departure ceremony at Noi Bai International Airport on September 22 for the Level-2 Field Hospital Rotation 8 and Engineering Unit Rotation 5. This demonstrates Vietnam's commitment to actively contributing to international peace and stability. UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix affirmed that the UN stands ready to assist Vietnam in building capacity and making greater contributions to peacekeeping operations. This suggests that Vietnam is receiving expectations and support from the UN in fulfilling its international responsibilities. The dispatch of these units is seen as a reflection of Vietnam's leadership's increasing emphasis on "diversification and balance" in its diplomatic strategy to respond to the increasingly complex and uncertain global landscape. General Secretary and President To Lam's recent visits to several countries and his attendance at the UN General Assembly underscore this diplomatic approach. Vietnam is also strengthening its relations with various countries, including elevating its ties with Canada to a Strategic Partnership. This indicates Vietnam's willingness to build broader and more multifaceted partnerships on the international stage. Vietnam regards Canada as a friend and a trusted partner with which it shares many common interests and strategic perspectives. Under Vietnam's one-party system, the country's foreign policy is advanced under the leadership of the Communist Party, prioritizing national interests and enhancing its standing in the international community. Participation in PKO is positioned as part of Vietnam's strategy to contribute internationally not only militarily but also through soft power in peacebuilding. For Vietnam, which continues to experience economic growth, enhancing trust and influence in the international community is essential for the sustainability of its economic development. Source: VietnamPlus English