While the great powers of the world dither and deliberate over sending forces to stop war in some violence-prone parts of West Africa, our proud armed forces continue to play a leading stabilising role in that region. :k:
Pak Army contingent leaves for Sierra Leone
The first batch of peacekeeping troops of the Pakistan contingent-III left here from the Allama Iqbal International Airport on Tuesday on a UN chartered aircraft as part of the relief-rotation programme under the United Nations Mission in Sierra Leone (UNAMSIL). Pakistan has so far contributed more than 8,000 troops for the mission during the last two years forming a major component of UN Blue Berrets in Sierra Leone for restoration of peace in the strife-torn country. The elements of Pakistan Contingent-III will replace their counterparts of Pakistan Contingent-II that would be returning subsequently on completion of their tenure. Speaking to the troops before bidding them adieu, Major-General Afzal Muzaffar, General Officers Commanding, said they were embarking on a noble mission as ambassadors of their country and their every action should be reflective of a proud Pakistani and a dedicated and devoted soldier of Pakistan Army. He said the sacrifices rendered by Pakistani troops for the cause of peacekeeping in the world had earned them a reputation of a symbol of peace. He expressed the hope that the members of the Pakistan Contingent-III would live up to the standards of professional commitment and spare no efforts to maintain peace and order and to help their brethren in distress.
Ever since its independence in 1947, Pakistan has endeavoured to remain in the forefront of UN efforts to bring peace to the conflict zones around the globe through its willing contribution and active involvement in UN peacekeeping missions.