Minister for Defence Dr. Minendra Rijal said on Sunday that the tireless efforts and determination of the Nepali security forces in establishing world peace have made Nepal a country of peacekeepers.
Speaking at a programme organised by the Nepali Army at the Birendra Peacekeeping Operation Training Centre (BPOTC) in Panchkhal, Kavre, on the occasion of the 76th founding day of the United Nations, Minister Rijal said that discipline, guidance and high level of professionalism of the peacekeepers had made Nepal a reliable ally of the United Nations.
Stating that the contribution made by the Nepal security forces in the establishment of peace in the war-ravaged countries was commendable, he said that a strong and unique relationship has been established between Nepal and the United Nations through mutual trust, cooperation and respect.
According to information, 135,399 Nepali peacekeepers have contributed to 43 peacekeeping missions established in conflict-ridden countries of the world so far.
Currently, 5,168 Nepali peacekeepers, including 181 women, are deployed in 12 peace keeping missions around the world.
At present, Nepal ranks the second in the list of countries contributing largest number of peace troopers.
Stating that Nepal’s promotion to the list of sending more troops to the peacekeeping force was a testimony that Nepal is working with the United Nations to end the global conflict, Minister Rijal also praised the United Nations for its support to Nepal’s peace efforts.
Ayshanie Medagangoda- Labe, UNDP Resident Representative for Nepal, lauded Nepal’s support to the United Nations peacekeeping and humanitarian assistance programmes.
Vice Chief of General Staff (CGS) Lieutenant General Bal Krishna Karki said that disciplined and professional manpower of the Nepali Army has been fulfilling its responsibilities efficiently even in challenging circumstances at the call of the United Nations.
On the occasion, the Dag Hammarskjold Medal, awarded by the United Nations to the family member of late Lieutenant Colonel Kabindra Jung Thapa, who was killed in a rebel attack while working for peace in the DR Congo, was handed over.
At the call of the United Nations, Nepal has been contributing to the establishment of international peace by sending Nepali Army, Nepal Police and Armed Police Force, Nepal.
Source : TRN,
