The Minister for Defence, National Security and Foreign Affairs, Hon. Inia Seruiratu this week attended the Peacekeeping event co-hosted by Fiji, Ireland and the International Peace Institute (IPI) as a keynote speaker. The second keynote speaker for the event included Honourable Paul Kehoe, Minister for Defence of Ireland.
 
The event was moderated by Mr. Jake Sherman of the IPI while the panel consisted of Ambassador Dr. Satyendra Prasad, Fiji’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, and Mr. Ciaran Murphy, Policy Director, Department of Defence, Ireland. The event discussed Implementing Action for Peacekeeping, and the roles of Troop Contributing Countries as being the key stakeholders in the United Nations Peacekeeping.
 
In his address, Minister Seruiratu highlighted that Fiji has been participating in United Nations Peacekeeping for the last 40years.  He stated that despite the huge challenges experienced as a small country, Fiji has remained committed to the United Nations Peacekeeping. He elaborated  that the role of troop contributing countries are very important as they; select, prepare, equip and sustain their contingents for peacekeeping duties which are especially important if contingents are to perform in often hostile environments whilst trying to achieve mandate tasks and meet United Nations standards.
 
Minister Seruiratu reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to Peacekeeping and paid tribute to all peacekeepers, in the service of peace.
 
Similarly, Dr. Satyendra Prasad highlighted the value of Fiji and Ireland’s diverse experiences in countries like Kosovo, Timor Leste, Iraq, South Sudan and the Middle East. The diverse engagements assist in preparing missions better. Fiji continues to support the UN Secretary-Generals efforts to bring peacekeeping, peacebuilding and conflict resolutions development closer together.
 
This event was held at the New York International Peace Institute, an independent, international think tank dedicated to managing risk and building resilience in order to promote peace, security, and sustainable development. The event was attended by representatives from the United Nations, the diplomatic community and non-government organisations.