Fijian Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua has confirmed that the Fijian soldiers serving in the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) are safe and unaffected by the recent escalations in the Middle East. During a parliamentary session, he pointed out that there is currently only one Fijian officer on duty with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), alongside personnel from the Fijian service working with the United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation (UNTSO).
Minister Tikoduadua emphasized that the Fijian troops are well-prepared and strictly adhering to established Standard Operating Procedures. He assured that they have robust contingency plans for potential evacuation if needed. The Ministry maintains regular communication with the Republic of Fiji Military Forces headquarters, and the joint taskforce commander at Blackrock is responsible for overseeing the safety of peacekeeping personnel deployed in various regions, including the Middle East.
The safety and welfare of the peacekeepers are of utmost importance to the Coalition Government. Tikoduadua mentioned that they receive daily situation reports from the field and are ready to respond swiftly to any arising challenges. Ongoing consultations with the government of the United Arab Emirates are taking place to discuss the temporary stationing of Fijian troops and equipment to bolster readiness.
Additionally, the Minister announced plans for a government delegation to visit the Middle East early next year to evaluate conditions on the ground, assess reinforcement strategies, and express gratitude for the support shown to Fijian peacekeepers. He also noted the potential deployment of seven of the fourteen Bushmasters to the UNDOF mission area, although this effort faces restrictions regarding vehicle entry from both Syria and Israel.
This update highlights the dedication of the Fijian government to ensuring the safety of their peacekeepers while remaining proactive amid challenging global circumstances. Such measures exemplify a commitment to peacekeeping and the importance of international cooperation in supporting troops in volatile regions.
In summary, the Fijian government is closely monitoring its peacekeeping forces in the Middle East and has put extensive measures in place to ensure their safety and readiness, showcasing a responsible approach to international peacekeeping efforts.
Leave a comment