Pakistan pays glowing tribute to UN peacekeepers, reaffirms commitment to global peace

RAWALPINDI: On the occasion of the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers 2026, Pakistan paid rich tribute to the sacrifices and invaluable contributions of UN “Blue Helmets,” reaffirming its unwavering commitment to global peace, security and humanitarian service under the United Nations flag.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Pakistan highlighted its more than six-decade-long association with UN peacekeeping missions, describing it as a reflection of the country’s steadfast dedication to international peace and stability.

Since 1960, over 237,000 Pakistani peacekeepers have served in UN missions across the world, while 183 Pakistani personnel embraced martyrdom in the line of duty during peacekeeping operations.

The statement noted that Pakistani peacekeepers are currently serving in some of the world’s most volatile and high-risk conflict zones, including the Democratic Republic of Congo under MONUSCO, South Sudan under UNMISS, and the Central African Republic under MINUSCA.

It said Pakistani contingents were carrying out a broad spectrum of multidimensional operations ranging from active military engagements to addressing climate-driven humanitarian crises and civilian protection responsibilities.

Highlighting the changing nature of modern conflicts, the statement observed that contemporary war zones had become increasingly unstable, complex and asymmetric, exposing peacekeepers to hybrid threats including cyber risks, digital misinformation campaigns, political fragmentation and climate-induced emergencies.

Referring to the 2026 theme of the International Day of UN Peacekeepers — “Invest in Peace” — the statement described it as a significant shift from reactive conflict management towards proactive peace preservation.

“Investing in peace in the contemporary era requires technological and structural evolution,” the statement said, stressing the need for advanced intelligence systems, stronger civilian protection mechanisms and climate-resilient operational frameworks to effectively safeguard vulnerable populations.

The Government of Pakistan and the Armed Forces reiterated their firm resolve to continue supporting the objectives and ideals of United Nations peacekeeping through investment in human capital, state-of-the-art training facilities and institutional capacity building.

“Pakistan stands resolute alongside the United Nations, reminding the global community that enduring peace is not guaranteed but requires continuous and collective investment,” the statement added.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s historic role in international peace efforts, the statement said the country remained committed to acting as a vanguard of global stability, security and humanitarian relief under the banner of the United Nations.