Pakistani Armed Forces Remain Largest Contributors To UN Peacekeeping, Says Envoy

Sohail Khan, Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, has stated that the Pakistani Armed Forces continue to contribute the most to United Nations peacekeeping operations around the world, a position they have held since 1960.

Khan, a retired Major General in the Pakistani military, made the announcement at the Pakistani High Commission in Abuja on Friday during Pakistan’s Defence and Martyrs Day celebration, which has been held annually on September 6 since 1965.

He stated that the commemoration day was held to honour Pakistan’s armed forces for their valiant defence of the motherland against internal and external aggression.

He revealed that 23,900 officers and five generals lost their lives in the Global War on Terror, costing Pakistan more than US$152 billion.

According to the High Commissioner, Pakistan has maintained its responsible nuclear state status, and the armed forces have demonstrated exceptional command and control system management.

He emphasised that one of the main purposes of the occasion is to honour martyrs and members of the armed forces for their dedication and sacrifices.

Col. Mushtag Kamran, the Defence Advisor at the High Commission, stated that September 6 represented unwavering resolve, unity, and a sense of sacrifice to defend the motherland at any cost.

He praised the sons of the soil who gave their lives to protect freedom and sovereignty, and urged others to strive for a better future.

Senior Nigerian Armed Forces officers, ambassadors, attachés, and diplomatic corps attended the event, which featured traditional Pakistani cuisine and ended with a pledge from Pakistani officers to continue to defend the motherland in the footsteps of martyrs.