A traditional ceremony welcomed home the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) 1st Battalion today after their deployment under the United Nations Assistance Mission in Iraq (UNAMI).
The event at Albert Park drew Cabinet Ministers, members of the disciplined forces, former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, and former President and Speaker of Parliament Ratu Epeli Nailatikau.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, speaking on behalf of the President and the people of Fiji, thanked the soldiers for their sacrifice, dedication, and commitment in carrying the Fiji flag with pride under the United Nations mandate.
Rabuka also paid tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives during the mission, honouring their bravery and enduring contribution to international peacekeeping.
Rabuka acknowledged Bainimarama’s vision in strengthening Fiji’s global peacekeeping reputation.
“I thank the Almighty for your safe return to Fiji. You are the final contingent, marking the conclusion of Fiji’s service in UNAMI in Iraq, which began 21 years ago in 2004 and concludes this year.”
“For more than two decades, Fiji maintained a continuous presence under a United Nations mandate, demonstrating discipline, reliability, and unwavering commitment to international peacekeeping. Fiji will continue to uphold global peace and security, as we have done for the past four and a half decades,” the Prime Minister added.
RFMF Commander Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai praised the soldiers for upholding Fiji’s proud peacekeeping legacy, while 1st Battalion Commander Lieutenant Colonel Naivalu expressed gratitude to the government for entrusting his battalion with representing Fiji on the international stage.
Fiji currently contributes personnel to seven United Nations peace operations worldwide, underlining the nation’s ongoing commitment to peace and stability.
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