India’s 28-year contribution to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) was among the key themes of a meeting between Lieutenant General Navin Sachdeva, AVSM, SM, Director General Staff Duties (DG SD), and India’s Ambassador to Lebanon, H.E. Noor Rahman Sheikh.
Focus on Indian peacekeepers
Sheikh received Lieutenant General Sachdeva and his accompanying delegation at the Embassy of India in Lebanon. The discussions covered India’s role in United Nations peacekeeping in southern Lebanon, particularly the service of the Indian Battalion (INDBATT), which the source describes as having a record of professionalism and dedication over nearly three decades.
Both sides highlighted Indian peacekeepers’ contribution to the UNIFIL mandate, regional stability and cooperation with local communities. Colonel Prasoon Singh, SM, Contingent Commander (CONTICO) of INDBATT, represented the battalion at the meeting.
Community engagement and bilateral ties
The engagement also noted the contingent’s responsibilities under the United Nations mandate and its relations with the local population. Indian peacekeepers in Lebanon have undertaken community engagement initiatives intended to strengthen trust and cooperation between UN forces and local residents.
The meeting reflected the longstanding partnership between India and Lebanon, including diplomatic cooperation and a shared commitment to international peace and security. India has contributed military personnel to UN peacekeeping missions worldwide; the source notes their professionalism, discipline and humanitarian assistance in conflict-affected regions.
With 28 years of service under UNIFIL, INDBATT continues to represent India’s commitment to peacekeeping. The Embassy meeting reaffirmed India’s support for United Nations peacekeeping objectives in Lebanon and its intention to further strengthen bilateral relations with the country.
