Poland in Lebanon

Taking advantage of the visit of the Head of Mission and Force Commander of UNTSO, Major General Patrick Gauchat, to Beirut on September 24–25 of this year, the Embassy of the Republic of Poland organized a diplomatic briefing for the Ambassadors of the countries participating in the observer mission. On the UNTSO side, in addition to the guest of honor, the meeting was attended by the Head of the UNTSO Liaison Office in Beirut, Lieutenant Colonel Dieter Bachmann.

The ceremonial dinner was joined by the heads of mission or their deputies from Austria, Denmark, Finland, the Netherlands, Canada, Norway, Slovakia, and Sweden. During the meeting, discussions focused on the future of United Nations peacekeeping missions in the context of the ongoing political and security developments, as well as on the future and prospects of southern Lebanon in light of the planned conclusion of the UNIFIL Mission.

The gathering took place in a very positive and open atmosphere. The representatives of the member states of the mission appreciated the opportunity to engage directly with the UNTSO Head of Mission during his stay in Beirut. The meeting also served as an occasion for the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Beirut to establish bilateral contacts with the General. The Polish initiative was noted and appreciated both by UNTSO and by the local diplomatic corps.