Pakistan military vows to support security initiatives for UN troops on peacekeepers’ day

Pakistan soldiers take part in a multinational U.N. peacekeeping military exercise with troops of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), Mongolia and Thailand, on the outskirts of Zhumadian, Henan province, China, on September 15, 2021. (REUTERS/File)

• The military says it is currently contributing 3,000 soldiers to UN missions in high-risk international environments
• Pakistan has contributed 235,000 troops to peacekeeping operations in 29 countries since 1960, losing 181 soldiers

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan military said on Wednesday the country would continue to support initiatives aimed at increasing the security of United Nations forces deployed in high-risk environments, in a message commemorating International Peacekeepers’ Day while highlighting its contribution of 3,000 troops currently serving in such missions.
UN peacekeeping operations are vital since they help maintain security in conflict zones by intervening in disputes, protecting civilians and helping to build a sustainable peace in post-conflict areas. These missions operate under the mandate of the United Nations Security Council, and their roles can include monitoring ceasefires, securing safe delivery of humanitarian aid and assisting in the disarmament, demobilization and reintegration of former combatants.
The troops for these missions are assigned by UN member states. Pakistan is one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping, with its officials and troops currently deployed in places like the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Central African Republic, Cyprus, Western Sahara and Somalia.
According to an official statement issued by the military media wing, ISPR, Pakistan has contributed 235,000 troops to UN peacekeeping operations in 48 missions in 29 countries since 1960.
“Pakistan is proud of its long-standing commitment to UN peacekeeping,” the ISPR said. “Our peacekeepers have demonstrated exceptional courage, professionalism and dedication to promoting peace and stability in conflict-ridden regions. Overall, 181 Pakistani peacekeepers have made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.”
“Pakistan also remains committed to United Nations Uniform Gender Parity Strategy (UGPS) of United Nations for enhanced representation of women in uniform, Secretary-General’s Action for peace (A4P) initiative, which seeks to improve the effectiveness of UN peacekeeping operations by enhancing their capacity, coherence and responsiveness,” it continued. “Additionally, Pakistan also supports initiatives aimed at improving the safety and security of UN peacekeepers, particularly those serving in high-risk environments.”
The statement added that Pakistan’s contributions to UN peacekeeping were a testament to its commitment to international peace and security, adding that Pakistani peacekeepers would continue to uplift of local communities in troubled regions.