Nepal Army pledges commitment to UN objective for world Peace and security: CoAS Sharma

On the occasion of the International Day of UN Peacekeepers, Chief of Army Staff Prabhuram Sharma reiterated the Nepal Army’s unwavering dedication to serving the United Nations mission for global peace and security.

Addressing a gathering at the Birendra Peace Operations Training Centre in Panchkhal, Kavrepalanchowk on Friday, General Sharma emphasized the significant role played by Nepali troops in UN peacekeeping missions, which has greatly enhanced Nepal’s international reputation.

During the event, General Sharma paid homage to fallen soldiers by laying a wreath at the Warrior Memorial Pillar and proudly hoisted the flag of the UN Peacekeepers.

Santosh Ballav Poudel, Director of Peace Operations, praised the selflessness, bravery, and noble character exhibited by the Nepal Army, which has earned global recognition.

In recognition of their sacrifice and dedication, the Army Chief presented awards and letters of appreciation to the families of soldiers who lost their lives while serving as UN peacekeepers, as well as to personnel who displayed exceptional courage in fulfilling the objectives of peace operations. The spouses of Pitambar Thapa, Dipendra Wasti, and Pashupati Karki, who made the ultimate sacrifice during their deployment in UN peacekeeping missions, were honoured at the ceremony.

Furthermore, Captain Kailash Kumar Basnet, Warrant Officer Govinda Thapa, and Sergeant Hikmat Tamang Ghising received awards for their exemplary performance in various peacekeeping missions. Over the past 68 years, the Nepal Army has actively contributed to 44 UN peacekeeping operations, with a remarkable 145,356 personnel having received UN peacekeeping medals thus far. Tragically, 72 soldiers have lost their lives while serving on these missions, and 66 others have sustained injuries.

Currently, a total of 6,057 Nepali peacekeepers, including 529 women, are deployed in 13 missions across different countries worldwide.

Demonstrating their commitment, the Nepal Army has expressed its readiness to dispatch 10,000 troops simultaneously if called upon by the UN. Nepal holds the second position globally in terms of the number of peacekeeping personnel it provides.

Looking ahead, the Nepal Army plans to transform the Birendra Peace Operations Training Centre into a “Centre of Excellence,” furthering its mission to contribute effectively to peacekeeping efforts worldwide.