On Friday, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres paid a heartfelt tribute to three Moroccan peacekeepers who tragically lost their lives while serving in UN missions across Africa. During the organization’s annual memorial ceremony held in New York, Guterres awarded them the prestigious Dag Hammarskjöld Medal posthumously, recognizing their dedication and ultimate sacrifice.

The medals were presented to Morocco’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Omar Hilale, symbolizing the nation's commitment to peacekeeping and the values upheld by the United Nations. Among the honored were two peacekeepers who served with the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), while the third was deployed under the UN Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO).

In his remarks, Hilale extended his condolences to the families of the deceased peacekeepers, acknowledging their unwavering commitment to maintaining global peace and security. He emphasized the vital role that these brave individuals play in fostering peace, not just in their host countries but around the world.

Morocco has established itself as one of the leading troop-contributing countries to the United Nations, currently deploying 1,714 military personnel in MONUSCO and MINUSCA. This significant presence places Morocco among the top ten contributors globally, highlighting the kingdom's strong commitment to international peacekeeping efforts.

The solemn ceremony also served as a poignant reminder of the nearly 4,500 peacekeepers who have lost their lives in the line of duty since the inception of UN peacekeeping operations in 1948. Guterres noted that in the past year alone, 59 military, police, and civilian personnel paid the ultimate price in service to their mission.

Addressing the attendees, Guterres reflected on the valor and dedication of UN peacekeepers, stating that they continue to embody “the best of humanity.” He highlighted that over two million men and women have served in 71 peacekeeping missions across four continents since the UN's first deployment, showcasing the organization’s relentless dedication to fostering peace globally.

As reported by en.hespress.com.