The Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Côte d'Ivoire, Mrs Aïchatou Mindaoudou, on Tuesday, 29 September 2015, presided over the medal parade ceremony for 370 peacekeepers from the 20th Benin Contingent (BENINBATT) in the presence of the Force Commander of the United Nations Operation in Côte d'Ivoire (UNOCI), General Didier L'Hôte and the Benin Ambassador to Côte d'Ivoire. This prestigious event for military personnel serving in UN Missions is held in recognition of the devotion to duty, their professionalism, their arduous work and their contribution to the restoration of peace.



Speaking on the occasion, Mrs Mindaoudou expressed her satisfaction with the quality of the work of the Beninese Contingent and with Benin's dedication to the return of peace in Côte d'Ivoire. She highlighted the essential role of played BENINBATT within UNOCI's military force. « It has always carried out its missions with efficiency, professionalism and devotion," said the head of UNOC, adding that the Contingent's actions are highly appreciated not only by Ivorians and the UN Mission but also by the military hierarchy whose orders it follows.



One odious act is enough to make people forget a thousand noble sacrifices



Mrs Mindaoudou once again recalled that it was imperative for all peacekeepers to strictly observe the Code of Conduct for United Nations personnel. Values such as respect for the laws of Côte d'Ivoire, as well as the customs and traditions of the host country. « You should therefore show at every opportunity the highest level of professionalism. As the United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon said: "One odious act is enough to make people forget a thousand noble sacrifices".



The Special Representative then thanked the Ivorian authorities and the people of Anonkoua Kouté for their unfailing support to the members of the Beninese Contingent and expressed her gratitude to Ivorians for their support to the United Nations and UNOCI.



The mayors of Yopougon and Abobo, traditional chiefs and a numbers of guests took part in the rich and colourful ceremony.