Sri Lanka reiterates continued commitment to UN peacekeeping

New York: Sri Lanka Monday reiterated its continued commitment to United Nations peacekeeping and pledged significant contributions from the Army, Air Force and Police.

Addressing the Leaders’ Summit on Peacekeeping at the United Nations on Monday (28), Sri Lanka’s President Maithripala Sirisena said the World today is a safer place because of the brave UN peacekeepers.

He said for over five decades, Sri Lanka has been making modest contributions to UN peacekeeping efforts. Current contributions by Sri Lanka to UN Peacekeeping stand at 529 including troops, Military Observers and Civilian Police, he added.

“We are committed to ensuring the best possible training and assessment of peacekeepers in Sri Lanka to uphold the highest standards of peacekeeping,” the President said.

In response to current gaps in UN peacekeeping Missions, Sri Lanka pledged two Combat Transport Companies, two Field Engineering platoons, one infantry battalion, two Special Force Companies, one Combat Engineering Company, three Infantry Battalions, one Explosive Ordinance Disposal Company, one Force Protection Company and two Formed Police Units.

The President also paid tribute to the UN peacekeepers who lost their lives during peacekeeping missions.

“The world today is a safer place because of the brace UN peacekeepers. On this occasion, let us remember and pay tribute to the hundreds of peacekeepers and staff who have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty over the years. Let us also recognise and commend their achievements,” the President said.