The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) today commemorated the International Day of UN Peacekeepers at a ceremony held at its headquarters in Naqoura.

Peacekeepers representing the 37 national contingents in UNIFIL were joined at the ceremony by representatives of local authorities, Lebanese armed and security forces and members of the international community. Students from Notre Dame University in Beirut also participated.

Acting Head of Mission and Force Commander Brigadier-General Tarundeep Kumar reviewed an Honour Guard and, together with Brigadier-General Charbel Abou Khalil, South Litani Sector commander representing the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) Commander, laid wreaths at the UNIFIL cenotaph in memory of the 304 UNIFIL peacekeepers who lost their lives in the line of duty in south Lebanon.

Addressing the ceremony, Brig-Gen Kumar said: “Today, let us reaffirm UNIFIL’s deep commitment to assist the parties to maintain and solidify the cessation of hostilities and to promote full respect for UN Security Council resolution 1701. We will continue to work closely with the LAF, the Lebanese authorities and our UN partners to fulfil our mandated tasks.”

Brig-Gen Kumar conveyed a special word of appreciation to the LAF, “who continue to be an excellent partner in the performance of our duties.” He also thanked the Lebanese Government and the people of south Lebanon for their strong support to UNIFIL: “Only with your collaboration and friendship, UNIFIL has been able to advance the implementation of our mandated tasks,” he said.

On this occasion, a photo exhibition of UNIFIL activities was on display to showcase the work carried out by UNIFIL peacekeepers on land and at sea.

The annual International Day of UN Peacekeepers is observed globally to honour the memory of the UN peacekeepers who have lost their lives in the cause of peace. It also aims to pay tribute to all the men and women who have served and continue to serve in UN Peacekeeping operations for their high level of professionalism, dedication and courage.

To commemorate the Day this year, the UN Department of Peacekeeping Operations is launching a six month communication campaign entitled, “United Nations Peacekeeping: A Force for Peace, A Force for Change. A Force for the Future.” focusing on the priorities of modernization, innovation and efficiency.

Acting Head of Mission and Force Commander Brigadier-General Tarundeep Kumar speech