Naqoura: UNIFIL today marked the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations with a ceremony held at its headquarters in Naqoura, south Lebanon. The event also celebrated the 25th anniversary of the adoption of Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security, which acknowledges the pivotal contributions of women to global peace and security.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, attendees included Lebanon's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants, Youssef Raggi, representing the Government of Lebanon; Major General Hassan Audi, representing the Lebanese Armed Forces; as well as local and religious leaders and senior UN officials in Lebanon. The mission's head and Force Commander, Major General Diodato Abagnara, emphasized the importance of inclusivity in peacebuilding, stating that "Peace is not built by a few, it is built by everyone. And inclusion is not just a symbol, it is the very heart of peace itself."
The UNIFIL head commended the UN's efforts in Lebanon, describing the organization as "a bridge between communities, a channel for dialogue, and a steady hand in times of tension." Major General Abagnara highlighted the daily contributions of UNIFIL personnel and their collaboration with the Lebanese Armed Forces to uphold Security Council Resolution 1701.
He stressed the mission's focus on strengthening Lebanese institutions in the south and building community trust. Major General Abagnara also recognized the significant role of women in UNIFIL, noting their leadership across military, civilian, and police components.
This year's observance was the first in two years due to last year's intensified conflict along the Blue Line, which had prevented such ceremonies. United Nations Day, celebrated annually on 24 October, marks the anniversary of the entry into force in 1945 of the UN Charter, with Lebanon being one of the 51 founding members that signed the Charter.