RAWALPINDI, Nov 29: Pakistan Army troops serving in Congo have been awarded UN medals in recognition of their meritorious services for restoration of peace and humanitarian assistance.

According to ISPR, a colourful ceremony took place at Kavumu Airport in South Kivu province of Democratic Republic of Congo. Force Commander Lieutenant-General Babacar Gaye, who was the chief guest on the occasion, awarded Pakistani troops with UN medals.

Lieutenant-General Gaye appreciated Pakistan’s efforts for peace around the globe under the UN flag since 1960.He said the Pakistani contingent played a pivotal role in maintaining peace in South Kivu which improved the security situation tremendously. Their efforts helped in the successful conduct of a historic referendum and elections in South Kivu, which recorded the highest turnout in the entire DR Congo.

He paid rich tributes to the Pakistan contingent for its social and humanitarian work including the provision of medical assistance and clean drinking water, and repair and maintenance of roads and bridges.

The force commander conveyed the deep appreciation of UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, his special representative Willaim Lacy Swing, and the international community to the Pakistani contingent for the outstanding task it performed in South Kivu for the noble cause of peace.

Addressing a large gathering on the occasion, Commander of Pakistan Contingent-II Brigadier Maqsood Ahmed highlighted the security environments and challenges faced by the Pakistan contingent in South Kivu province at the time of assuming responsibilities.

Describing the contributions of the Pakistan contingent, he spoke about major operations undertaken in collaboration with FARDC (Congolese Army) against foreign armed groups; extensive support provided to the civil sections of MONUC to address the humanitarian issues in the province; activities of the Civil Military Coordination (CIMIC) aimed at winning the hearts and minds of local population; and training provided to FARDC during and after operations to enhance their operational capability and administrative support.

He mentioned that the hallmark of the year was the conduct of free and fair elections in South Kivu province with highest turnout in DR Congo.

Earlier, a smartly turned-out contingent of Pakistan Army led by Lieutenant-Colonel Amir Abbasi presented the guard of honour to the general officer commanding Eastern Division, and the force commander on arrival.

The ceremony started with recitation from the Holy Quran followed by speeches by the commander of Pakistan contingent–II and the force commander.

The force commander, the general officer commanding Eastern Division, the governor of South Kivu, the head of office MONUC South Kivu and the honorary councillor of Pakistan in DR Congo decorated the Pakistani troops with UN medals.

Later, the parade marched past and saluted the chief guest and other dignitaries.