- Prime Minister says Pakistan joins the world in honoring UN peacekeepers today.
- Highlights the theme “Investing in Peace” for global support efforts.
- More than 235,000 Pakistani troops have served in UN missions since 1960.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan reiterated its firm commitment to further strengthen global peace efforts through active participation in United Nations peacekeeping missions.
In a message on the occasion of the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers today, he said: “Our continued contribution reflects Pakistan’s enduring commitment to international peace and security, as well as to the principles of multilateralism.”
He said: “Today, Pakistan joins the international community in paying rich tribute to the brave men and women serving under the flag of the United Nations on the occasion of the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers.”
“This day, celebrated annually around the world, recognizes the invaluable services and sacrifices provided by military, police and civilian peacekeepers deployed in conflict-affected regions in pursuit of global peace and security,” he added.
He said: “This year’s celebration is commemorated under the theme ‘Investing in Peace’, which underlines the critical importance of sustained political commitment and financial support for the promotion of lasting peace and the protection of human lives around the world.
“The day also commemorates the establishment of the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO), the first UN peacekeeping mission, which began operations in Palestine in 1948.
“Throughout the history of peacekeeping, more than two million men and women have served in more than seventy UN peacekeeping missions around the world. Pakistan remains one of the largest and longest-serving contributors to United Nations peacekeeping operations. Through their dedicated service, troop-contributing countries continue to play a vital role in maintaining international peace and security, reflecting our collective commitment to peace as a shared global priority,” he said.
The Prime Minister said: “Since 1960, Pakistan has contributed more than 235,000 personnel to more than 48 United Nations peacekeeping missions, including more than 500 women. It is a matter of immense national pride that Pakistan today is the fifth largest contributor to United Nations peacekeeping operations.
“The brave peacekeepers serving around the world have made extraordinary sacrifices in the service of humanity and global stability. The unwavering dedication of UN peacekeepers to peace is exemplified by the ultimate sacrifice made by more than 4,400 personnel who have lost their lives in the line of duty, including more than 181 Pakistani peacekeepers,” he continued.
Prime Minister Shehbaz said: “Pakistan is immensely proud of its martyrs and all those brave sons and daughters who continue to serve with exceptional professionalism, commitment and determination in promoting peace, stability and protection of vulnerable communities in different regions of the world.”
