PAKISTANI peacekeepers rescued more than 2000 people stranded due to heavy floods in Uvira region of South Kivu in Democratic Republic of CONGO (DRC). Pakistani peacekeepers’ rescue efforts have been widely acknowledged by locals as well UN authorities.The hard work done by Pakistani peacekeepers is in line with highly motivated spirit of the troops that have been rendering valuable services both at home and abroad during emergent situations. Pakistan armed forces are present on the forefront of the efforts to mitigate sufferings of the people in the face of COVID-19. As for peacekeeping, despite increased engagements at home, Pakistan has been sparing troops to realize the objectives of peace and security in strife-ridden regions of the world and has earned recognition for its contribution and services not just from the UN under whose umbrella the peacekeeping forces work but also local communities. Being one of the largest troops contributing country, Pakistan has more than 4000 blue helmets serving under UN for maintaining peace and stability. According to latest figures, 157 Pakistani peacekeepers have laid their lives during various UN missions for preservation of global peace, while serving humanity with honour, courage and dignity. Pakistan’s participation in UN peacekeeping is one of the most tangible demonstrations of our commitment to the United Nations and a practical way of reaffirming our abiding faith in the purposes and principles of UN Charter. Pakistan’s former permanent representative to the UN Dr Maleeha Lodhi had aptly summed up the country’s role in this regard by highlighting that “Pakistan has been a leader in this field, and the performance of our troops in the field is a testimony to the premium that we place on training and professionalism”. Honesty of purpose has helped boost image of Pakistani troops as true and professional soldiers.
