(VOVWORLD) -The Vietnamese Task Force at the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) organized a special cultural exchange program for disadvantaged children at the Foyer de Charité in Bangui, the capital of the Central African Republic, on Monday, coinciding with the Vietnamese Mid-Autumn Festival.
 Vietnamese Mid-Autumn Festival lights up children’s smiles in the Central African Republic. (Photo credit: Vietnamese Task Force at MINUSCA) |
The event’s strong humanitarian spirit showcased Vietnamese traditions and strengthened the friendship between the peoples of Vietnam and the Central African Republic.
Opening the program, Lieutenant Colonel Duy Van Son, head of the Vietnamese task force at MINUSCA, recalled that they’ve organized traditional Vietnamese activities for the children to participate in, such as coloring, painting, playing folk games, and carrying Mid-Autumn lanterns. “It’s wonderful to see their excitement. They’re experiencing traditional Vietnamese culture and learning about the Vietnamese Mid-Autumn Festival,” said Son.
 Vietnamese peacekeeping officers celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival with children in the Central African Republic. (Photo: Vietnamese Task Force at MINUSCA) |
Following an explanation of the festival’s significance, Vietnamese officers led a series of traditional games – “Dragon Snake in the Clouds,” “Tug of War,” and “Musical Chairs” –filling the Foyer de Charité with the children’s laughter and cheers.
The “blue-beret” peacekeepers also gave the children gifts, including books, school supplies, toys, sweets, and star-shaped lanterns.