MFO Director General Commends Fiji’s Commitment to Peacekeeping Efforts

Elizabeth Dibble, Director General of the Multinational Force and Observers, commended Fiji’s ongoing peacekeeping contributions during her official visit. Discussions focused on ensuring troops receive necessary training amidst rising security concerns in the Sinai Peninsula, particularly near the conflict between Israel and Hamas. Dibble left Fiji for Wellington, New Zealand, emphasizing Fiji’s vital role in the MFO.

In recent discussions between Fiji’s Acting Minister for Defence, Filimoni Vosarogo, and the Director General of the Multinational Force and Observers, Elizabeth Dibble, the significance of Fiji’s commitment to peacekeeping was underscored. This meeting comes as part of Dibble’s official visit to Fiji, where she acknowledged the country’s longstanding role in MFO missions since 1982. The talks centered on the strategic importance of the MFO in a region marked by political turbulence, particularly near the Israel-Hamas conflict.

During their conversation, Vosarogo highlighted the necessity for troops stationed near the northern camp of the Sinai Peninsula to receive important skill upgrades. Given the increasing violence in nearby areas, he articulated the government’s responsibility to ensure the safety and preparedness of Fiji’s troops. He noted his gratitude that Dibble, who possesses considerable expertise in managing Middle East conflicts, shares this commitment to improving troop readiness.

As it stands, Fiji has 170 personnel deployed in the MFO, with a majority—159 members—located at the southern camp while 11 are positioned in the north camp. Vosarogo reiterated the urgency of providing the best possible support for the military, emphasizing the organization’s vital role in maintaining peace amidst escalating security threats.

Dibble, for her part, expressed her pride in the contributions made by Fiji’s contingents in the Sinai. She recognized Fiji’s dedication as a major troop contributor, acknowledging its partnership alongside nations like the United States in promoting regional stability. The visit also highlighted Fiji’s ongoing commitment to international peacekeeping efforts.

Having concluded her visit to Fiji, Dibble made her way to Wellington, New Zealand. This stop marked her final engagement with MFO troop-contributing nations before returning to her base in Rome. Her visit has brought further attention not only to the critical role of Fiji in peacekeeping initiatives but also to the broader mission of the MFO in supporting stability in a volatile region.

Overall, the discussions between Minister Vosarogo and Director General Dibble affirm the importance of Fiji’s role in international peacekeeping through the MFO. Both emphasized the need for continual skill development and safety for the active troops in conflict zones. With over three decades of involvement, Fiji maintains its commitment alongside key global partners, such as the United States, toward ensuring peace in tumultuous areas like the Sinai Peninsula.

Original Source: www.fbcnews.com.fj