All 60 members of the 23rd Chinese peacekeeping engineering contingent to Lebanon have successfully passed the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) qualification assessment on their first attempt, securing dual certifications in mine clearance and explosive ordnance disposal (EOD).
The assessment, which took place on Friday, is a critical prerequisite for peacekeepers operating in minefields and serves as a \"final exam\" before commencing their missions. The Chinese contingent's success marks a significant achievement since their deployment rotation in mid-December last year.
UNMAS dispatched two examiners to the mine clearance test site within the contingent's camp. The 60 personnel, comprising 43 mine-clearing engineers, five EOD specialists, and 12 medical staff, underwent rigorous qualification tests covering over 30 tasks across 10 core subjects. These included detector calibration, signal source identification, mine excavation, battlefield casualty evacuation, mine destruction, and explosive ordnance inspection.
During the evaluation, examiners introduced complex scenarios, such as signal sources and unexploded ordnance (UXO), to test the peacekeepers' abilities. Despite these challenges, the Chinese contingent demonstrated exceptional skills and strict adherence to standard procedures, passing the comprehensive assessment with ease.
\"We conducted rigorous and meticulous preparations following UN mine clearance standard operating procedures,\" said Bu Zhenwei, combat engineer company commander of the contingent. \"Every soldier studied diligently and trained intensively, passing the certification process step by step. This has laid a solid foundation for our upcoming missions.\"
Mine clearance and EOD certification are essential for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of peacekeeping operations in regions contaminated by landmines and unexploded ordnance. The Chinese peacekeepers' achievement not only enhances their operational readiness but also contributes to the United Nations' efforts in promoting peace and security in Lebanon.
Reference(s):
Chinese peacekeepers in Lebanon pass UN mine clearing certification
cgtn.com
