Key force in missions

In South Sudan, Wu witnessed the Chinese peacekeeping engineering detachment constructing the Sopo Bridge, reinforcing his belief that Chinese peacekeepers have become a key force in UN missions through their expertise.

In April 2020, the detachment set out from their camp, braving the risks of COVID-19 infection and the scorching heat, to reach the Sopo River, 254 kilometers away. The journey took three days.

"Upon arrival, the engineering unit immediately began work, digging up silt, laying foundations and installing culverts. After 20 days of relentless effort, the 68-meter-long and 8-meter-wide bridge was completed," Wu said.

The bridge became a crucial link for the Raja region, greatly helping locals and supporting UN humanitarian efforts, he said.

"The secret to Chinese peacekeepers becoming a key force lies in three words: professionalism, dedication and sacrifice," the former peacekeeper said, stressing that Chinese peacekeepers confidently build trust with sincerity and strength.

Given the harsh local living conditions and complex political situations, Chinese peacekeepers realize the preciousness of peace, and make contributions to improve local people's lives in their own ways.

"Coming from the world's largest developing country to the war-torn DR Congo presented obvious challenges," said Yang, who noted that "as a soldier, I am prepared for all kinds of hardships".

In her mission areas, there was no safe drinking water — or even water for washing. "We had to go 5 km away to get it," she said.

A question she often asked herself was: "How can the villagers be actually lifted from poverty to prosperity?"

For Yang, the answer was clear — knowledge can change the course of people's lives.

She stopped taking candies and biscuits to local children when patrolling, and started bringing books, notebooks, pens and soccer balls, hoping to spark their interest in learning.

"Knowledge can indeed change a person's fate, and sports can make one feel stronger and sturdier," Yang told the local children. "I could tell from their faces. They were more curious, with a longing for happiness," she said.

As military observers, Yang and her peers compiled the firsthand information gathered during their patrols, and reported it to relevant departments daily. "It makes me proud to see how our efforts can help make some difference in the country," she said.