Remarks by H.E. Mr. Abdulla Shahid, President of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly

15 July 2022

 

Excellencies,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

 

I am honored to be with you today in commemoration of the gallantry and commitment of the people of Guatemala; to help recognize those who have dedicated their lives to peace and freedom.

 

Peacekeepers represent commitment to the United Nations’ ideals of human rights, and of peace and prosperity. I commend all those who have given of themselves and express my deepest gratitude for their service.

 

Guatemala has served the international community since 1994, deploying almost five thousand peacekeepers and trained military personnel.

 

This country made the ultimate sacrifice when eight brave soldiers lost their lives in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 2006. 

 

This memorial, reflecting ancestral Guatemalan culture, recognizes this loss; yet it is also a symbol of hope. It promises safety, security, and solidarity.

 

I am deeply moved by the solemn atmosphere in this place of commemoration, and I recognize with deepest respect the Guatemalan peacekeepers who lost their lives while serving under the UN flag.

 

Friends,

 

UN Peacekeeping operations are one of the global community’s most effective tools in the promotion and maintenance of international peace and security. 

 

These operations support political processes, protect civilians, help curb violence, support peacebuilding, and protect human rights.

 

To the men and women who have dedicated their lives to the preservation of peace and security, I express my most heartfelt gratitude.

 

I commend peacekeeping missions and peacekeepers for their exemplary service and continued dedication, despite the difficulties and challenges they face.

 

As a gender champion, I welcome the increased participation of women in peacekeeping. Greater participation of women has contributed to better implementation of the peacekeeping mandate.

 

It is encouraging that 19 of the 150 members of the group here today are women. While far from parity, it is indeed above the average and demonstrates that Guatemala is moving in the right direction.

 

And as we move in that direction, we must continue to ensure the full, effective, safe and meaningful participation of women in peacekeeping. And we must learn from Guatemala’s achievements in doing so.

 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

 

United Nations peacekeepers work tirelessly to protect the most vulnerable populations in a world that is increasingly becoming more dangerous and challenging. 

 

Nevertheless, they work diligently to adapt to these rapidly evolving situations to fulfill their missions.

 

This is why we must uphold our commitment to support UN peacekeeping.

 

This is our shared responsibility, for the benefit of all nations and peoples.

 

Let me take this opportunity to recognize the leadership of the Regional Training Center for Peacekeeping Operations, which has trained those participating in peacekeeping operations – and which has demonstrated exemplary commitment in its collaboration with the United Nations.

 

 

And let me also take this opportunity to express to the Twenty-Second GUASFOR members that, as the bearers of peace in this Mission, you have every reason to take great pride in your work.

 

Your discipline, gallantry, and sacrifice will help the UN provide a safe and secure environment for those in need of the international community.

 

For this, and for everything you have done for humanity, I thank you.