Some 89 peacekeepers from the 9th contingent of the Pakistani Formed Police Unit (PAKFPU) of the United Nations Operation in Côte d’Ivoire (UNOCI), based in Guiglo, situated at 520 km west of Abidjan, were on Thursday, 10 March 2016, decorated with the United Nations Medal for their contribution to the consolidation of peace and reconciliation in the country.

The ceremony, which was presided over by the UN Mission’s Police Commissioner, Vianney Nshimiyimana, was an occasion to highlight the diverse support provided by PAKFPU9 deployed in Guiglo since 22 April 2015.

The commander of PAKFPU 9, Lieutenant-colonel Muhammad Usmane Latif, congratulated his men for their contribution to the organisation of peaceful presidential election in 2015, their involvement in providing security in the town, along with the United Nations Police (UNPOL) and their humanitarian actions to benefit local people. He then urged them to continue with their efforts in this regard.

« The history of our commitment and sacrifices to promote international peace has lasted some half a century. We must pursue our humanitarian efforts and not hesitate when faced with making sacrifices which will bring a smile to the faces of the people of Côte d’Ivoire », said the commander.

For his part, the UNPOL Chief welcomed the professionalism, commitment, devotion to duty and the humanitarian actions of the Pakistani Contingent and its excellent collaboration with UNPOL; before stressing the need for all peacekeepers to respect the UN rules on sexual abuse and exploitation.

« I want to remind you all that the fundamental values of the United Nations are professionalism, integrity and respect for diversity. Concerning sexual abuse, the UN rule is zero tolerance, so we must be responsible in our behaviour », he said.

In conclusion, Commissioner Vianney Nshimiyimana wished the men of PAKFPU the best of luck as they return to their country, adding that they can go home feeling proud of the mission they had accomplished in Côte d’Ivoire.

The ceremony was attended by the Prefect of Cavally Region, the Mayor og Guiglo and traditional chiefs from neighbourhoods in Guiglo.