UN Secretary-General António Guterres has appointed Major General Jawwad Ahmed Qazi of Pakistan as MINURSO’s new Force Commander.
Qazi brings more than 35 years of leadership and operational experience to the United Nations mission. His experience includes senior command positions in the Pakistan Army and UN peacekeeping.
Qazi Brings Extensive Military Experience
According to Pakistan’s Permanent Mission to the UN, Qazi has held several senior leadership positions. His previous roles include General Officer Commanding of an Infantry Division.
He also served as Force Commander Northern Areas and Director General at the Ministry of Defence. Earlier, Qazi gained international experience with the UN mission in Croatia.
He served with the UN Transitional Administration in Eastern Slavonia, Baranja and Western Sirmium. His international experience adds further depth to his new UN peacekeeping assignment.
Pakistan Welcomes UN Appointment
The appointment highlights Pakistan’s continued contribution to international peacekeeping efforts. Pakistan regularly provides trained personnel and experienced military leaders for UN missions.
The Permanent Mission said Pakistan takes pride in Qazi’s appointment. It also reaffirmed the country’s commitment to supporting global peace and stability.
Qazi will now lead military operations under the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara. The mission, known as MINURSO, supports UN efforts concerning the Western Sahara dispute.
His appointment adds another senior Pakistani officer to the United Nations’ peacekeeping leadership. Pakistan said it remains committed to deploying mission-ready contingents and experienced commanders worldwide.
