Egypt renews commitment to role in peacekeeping missions

CAIRO - 18 November 2018: Egypt renewed Sunday its commitment to continuing its role in peacekeeping operations in the world, Deputy Foreign Minister for African Affairs Hamdy Loza told a high-profile regional conference in Cairo.

Cairo has also sought to develop peacekeeping missions and terms both during its last UN Security Council membership, Loza added.

The senior diplomat called for an effective UN role in all stages of peace keeping and peace-building, using all available means of the world organization.

"There is a need to move forward with this commitment and we must aim a framework that promotes integration and harmony by all actors in peacekeeping missions," Loza said in a speech before the gathering, organized by the Cairo International Center for Conflict Resolution, Peacekeeping and Peace-building (CCCPA).

He reviewed the role played by Egypt in this regard as one of the seven largest countries participating in peacekeeping missions.

Jean-Pierre Lacroix, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations, voiced pleasure over participating in the conference, hailing its organization. He also thanked Cairo for the hospitality he received.

He asserted that the restoration and preservation of peace has become a growing challenge, especially in conflict situations where actions are extended, leading to organized crime and terrorism.

The complexities of countries must be addressed to restore peace, he also said.

He reviewed the UN peacekeeping missions in Africa, including the one in Congo, where personnel from Malawi have been killed.

Also in Congo which is witnessing an Ebola outbreak, there are missing peacekeepers, he said.

He called for developing peacekeeping missions, expressing appreciation for countries contributing to these operations.

Lacroix expressed gratitude for Egypt, as it is one of the largest seven contributors in the missions.