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Mr. Serry,

Ladies and gentlemen,

It is an honour to preside over this ceremony marking International Peacekeepers Day at the headquarters of the first United Nations peacekeeping mission, UNTSO.

This day highlights the sacrifices that United Nations personnel make in the cause of international peace and security.

This year, our theme is the rule of law in peacekeeping. This choice reflects the increasing focus we are bringing to our work to train trusted police, establish humane corrections and create courts that can serve justice fairly and efficiently.

All of these elements are critical to lasting peace. When we strengthen the rule of law, we protect fundamental human rights, give citizens confidence in their State and pave the way for true security.

Dear colleagues,

I know I speak for all UN staff in expressing my profound admiration for the work that you, and more than 120,000 other UN peacekeepers around the world, carry out day in and day out, often under remote and risky circumstances.

When you face danger, we, too, are concerned for your safety and well-being. When you succeed, you make us all proud.

Since 1948, some 2,900 peacekeepers have lost their lives while serving under the UN flag. I pay tribute to the memory of all fallen peacekeepers, including those here at UNTSO.

UNTSO continues to play an important role in maintaining contacts with the parties to the 1949 Armistice Agreements. Member States have remained unanimous in their support for your activities.

Thank you for your commitment to United Nations peacekeeping and our global mission of peace, development and human rights.

Thank you to all here at Government House who work so hard to uphold UN ideals.