Government gives green light to National Armed Forces for participation in UN’s international mission in Lebanon

On Tuesday, 11 April, the Cabinet of Ministers approved participation of soldiers serving in the National Armed Forces (NAF) in the international mission of United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), thus reaffirming Latvia’s commitment to better international security and reputation of reliable ally.

Bill approved by the Cabinet will now have to go to the vote of the parliament, Saeima.

NAF will initially send three commanding officers to Lebanon, and could later increase contribution to additional infantry platoon with 30 troops.

For more successful and efficient integration with UNIFIL, Ministry of Defence and National Armed Forces have decided to collaborate with Italy, which already is one of the biggest framework nations on the mission. Italy joined mission in 1979 and has been very active in its delivery since. It is currently the second biggest contributor. Italy is also one of the key contributing countries on the NATO enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group Latvia.

Participation in the international mission in Lebanon will not only help achieve numerous international cooperation objectives but will also strengthen operational and tactical cooperation between NAF and Italian troops and also give Latvia valuable experience of operating in a different environment. Latvia is also planning to submit its candidature for non-permanent membership of the UN Security Council in 2025. Contribution to peacekeeping efforts will show that Latvia is a serious and reliable partner for international community in its global peacekeeping and security efforts.

National Armed Forces will join the UNIFL for the period stipulated in the resolution of the UN Security Council. On 31 August 2002, UNIFL was given a mandate until 31 August 2023. If UN Security Council shall decide to extend UNIFL’s mandate, Latvia will automatically prolong its participation. This condition is designed to ensure continuity of NAF contribution, which is vital for the overall efficacy of the UNIFL mission.

Contact information:
Roberts Skraučs
Head of the Media Relations Section
Military Public Affairs Department
Tel.: 67335393
E-mail: roberts.skraucs@mod.gov.lv