The third Chinese peacekeeping quick reaction force (QRF) deployed to the Abyei area at the Sudan-South Sudan disputed border has passed a comprehensive UN military capability assessment with high marks, the first such evaluation of a Chinese QRF by the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA).
The assessment covered more than 120 items across 11 areas, including combat readiness training, personnel and administration, civil-military coordination, and logistics support.
During the evaluation, assessment team members reviewed the unit's operations, listened to briefings from its various departments, and examined relevant documentation. The UN team then randomly selected four scenarios for live, realistic drills: establishing a checkpoint, riot control, emergency reinforcement, and casualty treatment and evacuation. The drills tested the unit's command and control, troop coordination, and comprehensive support capabilities.
Throughout the exercises, the Chinese peacekeepers demonstrated solid skills, efficient response, and professional operations, said the assessment team.
"We encourage them to keep up the good work. They showed lots of agility. They showed sharpness. Commendable," said Damilola Aiyebogun, head of the UNISFA assessment team.
Abyei, an oil-rich territory contested by Sudan and South Sudan, has been a flashpoint for tensions between the two countries. The UNISFA was established in 2011 through UN Security Council Resolution 1990.
3rd Chinese peacekeeping unit in Abyei passes UN military capability assessment
Sichuan welcomed thousands of outdoor sports enthusiasts from around the globe for a glacier ultramarathon and an international fishing tournament, alongside vibrant local cultural events, ahead of China's National Day holiday. From Thursday to Sunday, some 3,300 participants from 31 provincial-level regions in China and 15 countries gathered in Hailuogou, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, for the second Gongga 100 Glacier Extreme Race 2026. The event featured 100km, 60km and 40km categories, with routes climbing from about 1,600 meters to over 4,500 meters in altitude.
Along the way, runners passed through pristine dark coniferous forests, alpine meadows and distinctive rural landscapes, while taking in views of 14 snow-capped peaks over 6,000 meters, and experienced the magnificent autumn scenery at the foot of Mount Gongga.
"I took part in the 100-kilometer race, and the experience was incredible. The course was truly challenging, with steep climbs and descents that tested both body and mind. But standing at the mountain pass and watching golden sunshine on snow-capped mountains, it was all worth it," said Zhai Fan, participant.
Alongside the races, the local authorities also rolled out a rich variety of cultural and tourism activities for the Mid-Autumn Festival holiday. Chinese and international competitors and tourists alike enjoyed the full mid-autumn moon and experienced local ethnic traditions.
Meanwhile, in Sichuan's Nanchong city, the 15th Shengzhong Lake International Fishing Tournament attracted 1,200 anglers from 22 countries and regions. The event was accompanied by culinary showcases, such as a "whole fish feast," and nighttime music festivals, giving visitors a chance to savor local food and culture in between the sporting action.
Thousands drawn to Sichuan for glacier race, fishing
