Pakistan Army Major General Jawwad Ahmed Qazi has been appointed UN Force Commander of MINURSO, highlighting Islamabad’s longstanding role in global peacekeeping.
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Army Major General Jawwad Ahmed Qazi has been appointed as the new Force Commander of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO), marking another significant international peacekeeping assignment for a senior Pakistani military officer.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres announced the appointment, with Major General Qazi bringing more than 35 years of military leadership, operational command and international peacekeeping experience to the position.
The officer, who has been awarded the Hilal-e-Imtiaz (Military), has served in several senior command, staff and instructional roles during his military career. His previous assignments include command of an infantry division, Force Commander Northern Areas and service as Director General at the Ministry of Defence.
Major General Qazi also has previous direct experience with United Nations peacekeeping operations. Earlier in his career, he served with the United Nations Transitional Administration in Eastern Slavonia, Baranja and Western Sirmium (UNTAES) in Croatia.
His appointment underscores Pakistan’s longstanding contribution to UN peacekeeping, where the country has consistently provided military personnel and experienced officers to support international efforts aimed at maintaining peace and stability.
Pakistan has welcomed the appointment, viewing it as a further contribution to global peace and international security. The new assignment also reflects the confidence placed in Pakistani military leadership and its experience in multinational peacekeeping operations.
MINURSO was established by the United Nations to support efforts related to the referendum process in Western Sahara. The mission operates in a complex regional environment where UN peacekeeping and diplomatic efforts remain important to maintaining stability.
Major General Qazi’s appointment is therefore significant not only for Pakistan’s armed forces but also for the country’s broader role in international peacekeeping. His extensive military and UN experience is expected to support his responsibilities as Force Commander of the mission.
Why the Appointment Matters
The appointment gives Pakistan another senior leadership position within the UN peacekeeping framework and highlights the country’s continued participation in international security efforts. It also adds to Pakistan’s record of providing trained personnel and senior military leadership to UN missions worldwide.
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