5 minutes agoIreland continues participation in KFOR
Periskopi(an hour ago)
(an hour ago)The Irish government has decided to continue participating in its defence forces in NATO's peacekeeping mission in Kosovo.
The decision was made this week and will be in force for 12 months, after June of this year, according to a statement made today by the country's defence minister, Helen McEnthee.
Speaking after the Government's approval to continue the participation of the KFOR Defence Forces, McEnne said: “KFOR is an important international mission focused on creating a safe environment for Kosovo citizens, as well as supporting broader international efforts to build peace and stability in the region”.
“Since the first disposal of the Defence Forces personnel in August 1999, more than 3,000 members of the Defence Forces have served in KFOR. During this period, the Defence Forces have contributed significantly to the security environment in Kosovo, which remains stable even today”, said McEnne, Klankosova.tv.
She added that the mission has also provided a very important opportunity for thousands of members of the Defence Forces who have served on this mission over the past 27 years, in terms of the experience they have gained and in contributing to the mission.
“On behalf of the Government, I want to thank all members of the Defence Forces who have served on this mission for nearly three decades, contributing to the stability of Kosovo and providing a safe environment for citizens of this country”, the Irish Defence Minister stressed.
Meanwhile, Chief of Defence Forces Staff, Lieutenant General Rossa Mulcahy, welcomed the announcement that Ireland's Defence Forces will continue their participation in KFOR.
KFOR's “Partnership provides the Defence Forces with valuable operational experience and opportunities to strengthen co-operation and interoperability with partner countries. Above all, it enables our staff to continue making a significant contribution to international peace and security”.
“I am extremely proud of all members of the defence forces that have served and continue to serve in KFOR. Their dedication and professionalism are a credit for Ireland's Defense Forces and for the” mission itself, said Chief of Defence Forces Staff, Lieutenant General Rossa Mulcahy. /Periscopi/
