Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ highlighted Nepal’s commitment to participating in UN peace operations as a crucial component of its foreign policy during the opening ceremony of exercise “Shanti Prayas IV.” He expressed pride in Nepal contributing the highest number of troops and police personnel to UN Peacekeeping missions globally, emphasizing the country’s dedication to global peace and stability. The Prime Minister noted Nepal’s prioritization of UN Peace Operations and its pledge to deploy up to ten thousand well-trained personnel for such missions upon the UN’s request.
Prachanda underscored that Nepal boasts the highest number of women troops among all UN member countries in its Peacekeeping missions. He assured that the government will continue supporting UN endeavors and maintaining its strong commitment to international peace and equality. Nepal’s advocacy for peace is reflected in its participation in international treaties promoting disarmament and peaceful conflict resolution.
Acknowledging the evolving nature of conflicts globally, Prachanda emphasized the need for peacekeepers to adapt to complex politico-military-humanitarian challenges. He stressed the importance of reassessing peacekeeping strategies amid changing scenarios to ensure the trust and legitimacy of UN Peacekeeping.
The Prime Minister emphasized the significance of peacekeeping efforts, requiring deep humanity, commitment, and a readiness to intervene to protect the vulnerable. He recognized the impact of peacekeepers’ contributions and sacrifices in the pursuit of global peace and stability, even in the face of great peril.
Prachanda welcomed delegates and foreign friends to Kathmandu for the multinational exercise, paying tribute to the brave peacekeepers who made ultimate sacrifices. He expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Defence, the Nepali Army, and the US Indo-Pacific Command for co-sponsoring the event. The Prime Minister praised Nepal’s commitment to preparing credible peacekeepers through regular training and hosting multinational peacekeeping exercises.
