The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) awarded the UN Peace Medals of Honor to all the officers and soldiers of the sixth Chinese peacekeeping infantry battalion to South Sudan (Juba), in recognition of their contribution to the cause of peace in South Sudan.
UNMISS deputy force commander Major General Zhang Yijun spoke highly of the outstanding performance of China’s sixth batch of a peacekeeping infantry battalion in the past year.
“In face of danger, the Chinese peacekeepers were always fearless and ready to dedicate themselves. As one of the most disciplined, well-trained, and most professional troops of the UN mission forces, they proved themselves to be a model of UNMISS,” said Zhang Yijun.
Han Tao, the battalion commander of the sixth batch of China’s peacekeeping infantry battalion, said, “Although our mission is about to end, the mission of safeguarding world peace is always on the way. We will cherish our honor, never forget our original aspirations, and continue to stick to our posts with the highest standards. The second peacekeeping mission has come to a successful conclusion.”
The sixth batch of China’s peacekeeping infantry battalion was deployed to the mission area in December last year. Up to now, the battalion has carried out 8 short-distance patrols, 12 armed escorts, and 73 urban patrols.
The patrol in the weapon restricted area has reached more than 8,700 hours, the patrol mileage has reached more than 100,000 kilometers, and has participated in handling various emergencies 284 times.
Also, the infantry battalion has carried out more than 20 humanitarian relief activities such as free consultations and donations for condolences, which have been highly praised by the UNSC, friendly forces and local people. It is reported that the battalion will begin rotation in early December.
By Christabel Airo