Female Vietnamese peacekeepers wearing traditional áo dài stand alongside fellow United Nations peacekeepers in South Sudan. — Photo courtesy of the Level-2 Field Hospital Rotation No. 6

JUBA — Vietnamese peacekeepers deployed to South Sudan are combining their medical mission with cultural diplomacy, using food, music and traditional dress to share Việt Nam’s heritage with the international community.

Female officers from Việt Nam’s Level-2 Field Hospital Rotation No 6 have become a familiar presence at diplomatic events, where their traditional áo dài — the country’s national dress — has drawn praise for its elegance. The long silk tunic, worn over trousers, has come to symbolise Vietnamese identity, dignity and grace.

The hospital unit has also showcased Vietnamese cuisine at international gatherings, preparing signature dishes such as fried spring rolls, sticky rice cakes and beef noodle soup.

The meals, made by the soldiers themselves, have been well received by fellow peacekeepers, serving as a culinary introduction to the country’s culture.

Cultural exchanges have featured live performances of ca trù singing, folk songs and traditional dances from across Việt Nam’s regions. The performances, held under the open sky in South Sudan, have brought the sounds of a centuries-old culture to an international audience, drawing both emotion and admiration.

A cultural exchange event in South Sudan. — Photo courtesy of the Level-2 Field Hospital Rotation No 6

Việt Nam has been an active contributor to United Nations peacekeeping operations in recent years. In South Sudan, its personnel are not only delivering medical care but also helping build cultural bridges, reinforcing the country’s image as a friendly and culturally rich partner on the global stage. — VNS