In the sun-scorched plains of South Sudan, a unique collaboration unfolds between Chinese peacekeepers and international counterparts, as captured in CGTN's documentary Blue Helmets, No Borders. The film highlights the humanitarian efforts of China's Infantry Battalion (CHNBATT) and their partnership with global actors like Thai civil-military officer Khattaliya Roungreang.
Roungreang, stationed in South Sudan since 2022, describes CHNBATT's work as "a bridge between conflict and hope." The documentary showcases Chinese peacekeepers drilling boreholes for clean water, rebuilding schools, and providing medical aid to remote communities. One scene depicts a joint operation where Chinese engineers and Thai personnel restored a critical supply route after seasonal floods.
"Their engineering expertise transformed lives here," Roungreang notes, referencing CHNBATT's construction of a maternity wing at a UN-protected civilian site. The film also explores cultural exchanges, showing Chinese medics teaching traditional Tai Chi exercises to local children.
With over 2,500 Chinese peacekeepers currently deployed worldwide – the largest contingent among UN Security Council permanent members – the documentary offers timely insight into Beijing's growing role in global security initiatives. Analysts suggest such missions could reshape perceptions of China's international engagement while addressing urgent development needs in conflict zones.
