India’s Ambassador to Lebanon, Shri Noor Rahman Sheikh, joined the United Nations Day celebrations at the UNIFIL Headquarters in Naqoura, reaffirming India’s deep and enduring commitment to global peacekeeping.
The event, marking the founding of the United Nations on October 24, 1945, brought together international representatives, UN officials, and peacekeeping contingents serving under the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
India’s Strong Presence in UN Peacekeeping
During the ceremony, Ambassador Sheikh extended warm greetings to UNIFIL Head of Mission and Force Commander, Maj Gen Diodato Abagnara, and interacted with members of the Indian Battalion (INDBATT) stationed in South Lebanon.
The Ambassador praised the professionalism, courage, and discipline of Indian troops who continue to serve with distinction in one of the UN’s longest-running peacekeeping operations.
“India takes immense pride in its peacekeepers. Their service represents the best of our nation’s values — commitment, compassion, and global responsibility,” said Ambassador Sheikh.
He was received by Contingent Commander Col N. Gladson, who briefed him on INDBATT’s ongoing operations, humanitarian outreach, and community engagement activities in the region.
India’s Legacy in UN Peacekeeping
India remains one of the largest troop-contributing countries to UN missions worldwide, with over 250,000 personnel having served in 49 UN peacekeeping missions since 1948.
From the Congo to Lebanon, India’s soldiers, doctors, and police officers have played vital roles in stabilizing conflict zones and rebuilding communities.
At UNIFIL, the Indian Battalion has consistently earned recognition for its professionalism, disaster relief efforts, and civil-military cooperation projects — including medical camps, school support initiatives, and humanitarian outreach for local residents.
Ambassador Sheikh’s visit underscored India’s diplomatic and humanitarian engagement beyond its borders — blending military professionalism with soft power diplomacy.
Celebrating UN Day in Solidarity
The UN Day celebration in Naqoura featured ceremonial parades, cultural displays, and messages of unity from participating nations.
In his address, Maj Gen Abagnara emphasized the shared goal of peace and thanked contingents like India’s for their unwavering dedication.
As the blue helmets gathered under the UN flag, the event served as a reminder of how multinational cooperation — despite global tensions — remains possible through shared service and sacrifice.
“Peace is not the absence of conflict; it’s the presence of commitment,” an INDBATT officer remarked — a sentiment that reflected both the spirit of the day and India’s role within it.