Marking the 75th UN Day, UNIFIL head reaffirms commitment to cessation of hostilities

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22 Oct 2020

Marking the 75th UN Day, UNIFIL head reaffirms commitment to cessation of hostilities

UNIFIL today observed United Nations Day at its headquarters in south Lebanon, with its head reaffirming the UN Mission’s commitment to maintain the cessation of hostilities between Lebanon and Israel while allowing space for a long-term solution of the conflict between the two countries.

“In reaffirming UNIFIL’s commitment to maintain and solidify the cessation of hostilities, I urge all of you to keep working with the utmost dedication and towards sustained peace for south Lebanon,” said the UNIFIL Head of Mission and Force Commander Major General Stefano Del Col, during the UN Day ceremony attended by UNIFIL personnel and local dignitaries.

“In UNIFIL, we all work together towards our goal to maintain an environment conducive to a lasting peace and stability. We need to cherish the last 14 years of unprecedented stability in the south of Lebanon and build on it, with the commitment and the will of the parties,” he continued. “I do hope that new developments in the south of Lebanon will allow us to move forward in the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and in relation to the Blue Line contentions issues.”

During this worldwide observance of UN Day, the UNIFIL Head of Mission also presented certificates of recognition to 10 Lebanese staff members who have completed 35 to 40 years of service with the UN.

UNIFIL marked the 75th UN Day, which falls on 24 October, ahead of the weekend. The UN Headquarters in New York is also marking the Day today with a virtual concert, which can be viewed here webtv.un.org.

UN Day marks the anniversary of the entry into force in 1945 of the UN Charter. With the ratification of this founding document by the majority of its signatories, the United Nations officially came into being. 24 October has been celebrated as United Nations Day since 1948. In 1971, the UN General Assembly recommended that the day be observed by Member States as a public holiday.

This year’s observances come in a time of great disruption for the world, compounded by an unprecedented global health crisis due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with severe economic and social impacts.

“However, as we give our best during times of struggle, we can find opportunities for positive change and growth,” said Major General Del Col during today’s ceremony in Naqoura. He also paid tribute to all UNIFIL personnel, past and present, for upholding the values of the UN.

Speech of UNIFIL Head of Mission Major General Stefano Del Col: