The Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (CRFMF), Major General (Maj Gen) Ro Jone Kalouniwai, concluded his official visit to the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) with engagements that highlighted leadership, recognition, and strengthened partnerships as the mission approaches its closure.

During his visit, Maj Gen Kalouniwai paid a courtesy call to the Chief of Staff and Officer-in-Charge of UNAMI, Ms. Elizabeth Rolando, who expressed her deep appreciation for the continued professionalism, discipline, and commitment of Fijian peacekeepers. She commended their steadfast contribution to the mission’s success and emphasized that their dedication has been instrumental in upholding the mandate of UNAMI in a complex operational environment. Ms. Rolando later hosted a dinner in honour of Maj Gen Kalouniwai and the members of the Fiji Guard Unit, recognizing the unwavering service of the Fijian troops stationed in Iraq.

While in Baghdad, Maj Gen Kalouniwai visited the United Nations Forward Support Base located within the Red Zone at the Baghdad International Airport, the only UNAMI site in the Red Zone manned exclusively by Fijian personnel under the command of Major Ana Vuniwaqa. A briefing was delivered by Warrant Officer Class One Akuila Rova before the Commander officiated at a medal parade, presenting UNAMI service medals to 21 personnel, eight of whom were on their first tour of duty. The ceremony was a proud and emotional occasion, honouring the dedication and professionalism of the Fijian peacekeepers serving under challenging conditions.

The CRFMF also met with Chief of the General Staff of the Iraqi Armed Forces, General Abdul Amir Rashid Yarallah Yousif Al-Lami, who conveyed his appreciation for Fiji’s long-standing contribution to Iraq’s recovery and stability. The meeting reinforced the strong relationship and ongoing military cooperation between the two forces.

Later, Maj Gen Kalouniwai attended a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tamimi UN Compound, paying tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of peace. This was followed by a Medal Parade commanded by Captain Lasarusa Nukutabu, where additional Fijian personnel were formally recognized for their service under the United Nations banner.

As BATT 26, led by Lieutenant Colonel Timoci Naivalu, prepares for the final drawdown of the mission scheduled to close officially on 31 December 2025, Maj Gen Kalouniwai acknowledged the significant progress achieved since his first visit to Iraq in 2004 as part of Fiji’s initial reconnaissance team. He commended the resilience, sacrifice, and high standards maintained by Fijian peacekeepers throughout the years and expressed confidence in their enduring legacy of excellence and service.