The Head of Mission and Force Commander of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), Major-General Luciano Portolano, yesterday delivered the keynote address at the graduation ceremony of the American University of Science and Technology held in Biel, Beirut.

Addressing the graduates, Major-General Portolano said: "The connection between your graduation and peace is more relevant today than ever before. Recently we have unfortunately witnessed how peace, stability and culture have become victims of conflicts."

"Peace enables a country to flourish, its people to grow and build a better life for the generations to come. You are part of this effort; to build and grow; and the education you have received has given you the foundation to succeed," he said.

He added, "we are assisting the government of Lebanon to exercise its authority in the south. UNIFIL represents an important component of the United Nations Peacekeepingarchitecture and remains committed to ensuring that the Lebanese people and government flourish and grow."

Founded in 1989 the American University of Science and Technology is one of Lebanon's leading higher institutions. The university offers graduate and undergraduate academic programs in the arts and sciences. A total of 750 students were awarded degrees at the ceremony.