Blanar: UN Peacekeepers Source of Solidarity and Hope in Conflict-ridden Regions

Bratislava, 29 May (TASR) - Foreign and European Affairs Minister Juraj Blanar (Smer-SD) on the occasion of Friday's International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers highlighted this year's theme 'Invest in Peace' as an important message to the international community that wars won't end through the financing of further arms supplies, but through peaceful dialogue, TASR was told by the Foreign Ministry on the same day. "Supporting peace, stability, and respect for international law are among the fundamental pillars of Slovakia's foreign policy. These are our investments, which we have long and consistently promoted at both the domestic and international levels. And it is precisely the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers that reminds us of the importance of international cooperation in protecting peace and security. Peacekeeping forces are important bearers of solidarity with countries and populations affected by conflict and violence," stated Slovakia's chief diplomat. UN peacekeeping operations have long been among the most important tools for promoting stability and security. Currently, more than 50,000 peacekeepers are deployed on missions around the world, helping to protect civilian lives and provide humanitarian aid in the most vulnerable regions. "We view participation in peacekeeping missions as a significant contribution through which Slovakia helps protect civilians, strengthen security, and provide essential humanitarian aid where it is most needed," said Blanar. According to the minister, since its setting up in 1993, the Slovak Republic has continuously contributed to UN peacekeeping missions by deploying soldiers from the Slovak Armed Forces as well as members of the Police Corps. To date, Slovak peacekeepers have served in 16 missions across four continents, with their total number already exceeding 12,000. Currently, the Slovak Republic is represented in two UN missions - UNFICYP in Cyprus and UNTSO in the Middle East. am