16-8-2024 (BANGKOK) The Royal Thai Armed Forces are set to bolster the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) with a contingent of 273 military engineers, marking Thailand’s continued commitment to international peacekeeping efforts. The deployment, scheduled to commence on Sunday, represents the fifth rotation of Thai personnel to the troubled East African nation.
General Songwit Noonphakdi, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Armed Forces, presided over a ceremonial send-off on Thursday for the outbound troops. The contingent comprises a diverse mix of 256 Royal Thai Army soldiers, including 28 female military personnel, alongside 17 specialists from other military branches.
This new group will replace their predecessors who began their tour of duty in July last year, ensuring a seamless transition of Thai support to the UN mission. General Songwit announced that the deployment would occur in two phases, with the initial group departing this Sunday and the remainder following on 6 September.
UNMISS has been a crucial stabilising force in South Sudan since the country’s independence on 9 July 2011, working to maintain peace in a region that has experienced persistent unrest. The Thai contribution to this mission underscores the kingdom’s dedication to global peace and security initiatives.
General Songwit expressed pride in Thailand’s involvement in the international peacekeeping force, emphasising the invaluable opportunity it presents for Thai armed personnel to enhance their knowledge and gain international experience. “Our participation not only aids the mission in South Sudan but also elevates the skills and expertise of our military engineers,” he stated.
The General further highlighted the high regard in which Thai military engineers are held by international partners, including the United Nations. This deployment serves as a testament to their recognised competence and professionalism on the global stage.
