The Fijian government is taking swift measures to ensure the safety of its peacekeepers and their families amid escalating tensions in conflict zones around the world. Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Lenora Qereqeretabua emphasized that Fiji is working closely with international partners to address rising threats and enhance support for its troops currently deployed in regions like the Middle East, Europe, and Africa.
“Peace in our region, peace in the world and peace in our daily actions,” Qereqeretabua stated, acknowledging the immense challenges faced by the Pacific. She highlighted Fiji’s historical commitment to global peacekeeping efforts, even as instability increases in areas where Fijian soldiers serve, such as the Golan Heights, Lebanon, South Sudan, and Iraq—hotspots affected by conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, and Sudan.
This reassurance comes as concerns grow among the families of peacekeepers, with fears that violence might impact UN-mandated areas. The government is focused on fostering regional unity and has prioritized the well-being of its personnel through ongoing evaluations and preparedness measures. This includes adapting to the changing landscape of global conflict management and ensuring that Fijian peacekeepers remain effective and safe.
Previously, Fijian Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua has also addressed these concerns, reassuring the public that soldiers stationed with the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) are safe and unaffected by heightened tensions. Tikoduadua has highlighted that only one Fijian officer is deployed with UNIFIL in Lebanon, while others are part of the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO).
Ongoing strategies involve discussions about the potential deployment of military equipment to bolster readiness, as well as a government delegation set to visit the Middle East in the upcoming year to assess conditions and reinforce Fiji’s commitment to peacekeeping.
Fiji’s robust framework for maintaining peacekeeping operations is promising, showcasing a dedication to both the safety of its troops and the broader mission of global stability. The proactive measures being implemented reflect a hopeful outlook, indicative of Fiji’s vital role in international peacekeeping efforts as it navigates current challenges.
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