Hanoi, Sept. 26 -- Soldiers stationed in the Con Dao Special Zone are fostering closer ties with the local community through initiatives such as the "Zero-Dong Meal" and "Morning Coffee with Soldiers" programmes, promoting solidarity and providing motivation for service on the remote island.

Con Dao is an island located 180km from Vung Tau city in the former Ba Ria-Vung Tau province (now part of Ho Chi Minh City). On September 21, leaders from Ho Chi Minh City, the Con Dao Special Zone, and the Defence Command of Region 6 - Con Dao Special Zone joined local authorities in the "Zero-Dong Meal" programme, sharing meals with more than 150 disadvantaged residents. The informal gathering created space for officials to hear concerns directly f...