A traditional welcoming ceremony was accorded to the returning soldiers of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) 1st Battalion, who served under the United Nations Assistance Mission in Iraq (UNAMI), at Albert Park in Suva today.
The ceremony was attended by Cabinet Ministers, members of the Disciplined Forces, former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, and former President of the Republic of Fiji and Speaker of Parliament, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau.
On behalf of the President of the Republic of Fiji, His Excellency Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, and the people of Fiji, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka conveyed his heartfelt gratitude to the soldiers for their sacrifice, dedication, and steadfast commitment in proudly carrying the Fiji Flag while serving under the United Nations mandate.
Prime Minister Rabuka also paid tribute to the fallen soldiers who served in Iraq and made the ultimate sacrifice during their tour of duty, honouring their bravery, service, and enduring contribution to international peacekeepialso paid tribute to the fallen soldiers who served in Iraq and made the ultimate sacrifice during their tour of duty, honouring their bravery, service, and enduring contribution to international peacekeeping.
In his address, the Prime Minister acknowledged former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama for his vision in advancing Fiji’s contribution to international peacekeeping, which has strengthened the nation’s international standing and long-standing commitment to global peace and security.
“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,” Prime Minister Rabuka said.
“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 Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai, also thanked the men and women of the RFMF for their sacrifice, dedication, and hard work in upholding Fiji’s proud peacekeeping legacy.
The 1st Battalion Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Naivalu, expressed his appreciation to the government for entrusting the battalion with the responsibility of representing Fiji on the international stage and acknowledged the support received throughout the mission.
Currently, Fiji’s servicemen and women are deployed in seven United Nations peace operations around the world, reflecting the nation’s enduring commitment to peace and stability.
