ISLAMABAD, Pakistan: On the occasion of the “International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers,” Pakistan has commended the critical role being played by the peacekeepers in the maintenance of international peace and security.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said that with an illustrious history of UN peacekeeping spanning over six decades, Pakistani peacekeepers, both men and women, have been at the forefront of international efforts to end conflicts and restore order across many regions of the world.
On UN Peacekeeping Day, we salute the courage and dedication of UN peacekeepers worldwide. Pakistan stands proud of its longstanding commitment to peacekeeping missions, contributing to global peace and security. Together, we strive for a more peaceful and just world. pic.twitter.com/OVjf5s4ogC
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) May 29, 2024
The Spokesperson said that over 235,000 Pakistani UN peacekeepers have served with distinction in 48 UN peacekeeping missions, with Pakistan consistently retaining the position of one of the top Troop-Contributing Countries (TCCs) at the UN.
To date, 181 Pakistani peacekeepers have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, protecting civilians and upholding the UN peacekeeping mandates in the process.
“Pakistan is proud of the contribution of its women peacekeepers, and remains committed to enhancing their role in UN peacekeeping arena,” she remarked.
Over 500 Pakistani women peacekeepers have served in various UN missions, earning many laurels and distinctions in the process. Pakistan was also one of the first countries to achieve the UN’s deployment goal of 15% female staff officers.
Pakistani women in UN peacekeeping have been pivotal in fostering peace and security in conflict zones worldwide. pic.twitter.com/AfEakgSWgd
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) May 29, 2024
Ambassador Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said that Pakistan brings a unique perspective to UN peacekeeping, not only as a leading TCC but also as the host to one of the oldest peacekeeping missions in the world – the UN Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP).
It also continues to play its role in helping adapt the UN peacekeeping operations to contemporary challenges, including through African Union-led Peace Support Operations, she added.
“On this day, Pakistan reaffirms its unwavering support for the principles of the UN peacekeeping, and looks forward to continue its contributions towards maintenance of international peace and security as part of UN peacekeeping operations,” the Spokesperson also said.
