The Independent (Freetown)
23 February 2005
The deputy minister of defense of Sierra Leone Mr. Joe Blell has decorated Pakistani Peace keepers in the United Nations Mission in Sierra Leone with UN medals.
The medals are usually awarded to troops who serve in their deployment areas efficiently.
Addressing the Pakistani peacekeepers of Pakistani Contingent IV on the eve UN Medal Parade at Kenema, the eastern administrative headquarter of the coastal West African country, the deputy defense minister said Pakistanis assumed the responsibility of peacekeeping at a very crucial phase of the country's history . He added that , nevertheless, Pakistanis were able to, within a short period of time, maintain security and tranquility in the whole country. He said, "It goes without saying that you have done an exceedingly good job and have been a source of great inspiration and encouragement for other units and contingents".
He added: "You have indeed displayed a good standard of soldiery and commitment towards your duty during your stay in Sierra Leone acquitting yourselves in an honorable and dignified manner and always rising to the occasion, for which you and your country can rightly be proud of".
"You have built schools, roads, bridges, mosques, churches and playing grounds in the length and breath of the country, which will keep reminding us your memorable stay in the country. Pakistani doctors have earned a respectable reputation for attending the ailing community without any discrimination through free medical camps, which has been acknowledged by every one", he said.
Mr. Joe Blell, commended the Pakistani peacekeepers for their pivotal role in capacity building of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) and Sierra Leone Police (SLP) in post-war era. He said, "We are thankful to you for providing a solid infrastructural base to them through training, which will help them to meet all future challenges".
Along with Mr. Joe Blell, Force Commander, Deputy Force Commander, Chinese Ambassador, Egyptian Ambassador and Resident Minister East of the Sierra Leone Government also decorated the members of the parade with UN medals.
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