VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

 

The visit of Indonesian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Retno Marsudi to the Garuda Contingent headquarters in Indobatt, South Lebanon on Monday (26/2/2018), was or welcomed by Pasam Bahan or welcome dance which was performed directly by women peace troops of the Inter Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

During her visit to the peace mission area, Retno Marsudi was also greeted by drum band of the Garuda contingent.

In front of hundreds of peacekeepers in the city of Indobatt, Retno Marsudi, gave her high appreciation and pride in the contribution of Peace Forces abroad, especially in Lebanon.

"Once again what I feel is a pride. Proud, as Indonesia is a consistent nation which contributes to the world's peace. Proud to see directly the pace of Indonesian peacekeepers, Indonesia's peace ambassadors, "said Retno Marsudi in Indobatt, South Lebanon, Monday (26/2/2018).

On the occasion, the foreign minister also said that the Peace Force in Lebanon has "added value", for the nomination as a non-permanent member of the United Nations (UNSC) security council for 2019-2020 period. 

"Hopefully insha Allah and I ask for your help, that Indonesia will be re-trusted by the world to become a member of the UN Security Council. And, of course, your existence in Lebanon is adding value to the nomination of Indonesia, "said Retno.

Meanwhile, the Garuda contingent in Lebanon is the biggest peacekeeping forces which number reaches 1290 personnel out of a total of 2700 peacekeepers spread across nine peace mission areas.

Retno Marsudi also gave her high appreciation to the 48 Women Peacekeeping Forces in Lebanon, as highly respected and needed by the local community.

"The presence of the Women's Forces is highly respected and necessary in conflict areas. I am proud that their numbers (female troops) have increased from year to year, "said Retno.

Meanwhile, on her first visit to Lebanon on Sunday (25/2/2018), Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi met with the Peace Force under the Maritime Task Force with the support of KRI Usman Harun.

Indonesia is one of five countries that donate ships in peace missions in Lebanon, in addition to Bangladesh, Germany, Greece and Turkey.

Meanwhile, Retno Marsudi's visit to Lebanon is also a step to show the world of Indonesia's real commitment and contribution, in carrying out the peace mission that began in 1957. (KBRN/Retno/AHM)