Presidential Delegation visits MFO troops

The President of the Republic of Fiji and Commander in Chief of the Republic of Fiji Military Force (RFMF), His-Excellency (H.E.) Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, the First Lady earlier this week made their inaugural visit to our peacekeepers serving in Sharm El Sheik, Sinai with the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) mission.

His-Excellency Ratu Katonivere was accorded a 100-man guard of honour after being welcomed by the South Sinai Governor, Mr Khaled Fouda Saddiq, and the MFO Force Commander, Maj-Gen Evan Williams.

While addressing the troops during the ‘veiqaraqaravi vakavanua’ which followed the guard of honour, H.E. Ratu Katonivere reassured the troops of upholding the ultimate standard of peacekeeping that has been set in the past and reminded them of its importance, especially for the future of the RFMF.

In addition to this, H.E. Ratu Katonivere and his delegation were briefed on the different aspects of operations undertaken by the Fiji Contingent; before laying a wreath at the 2 FIR Headquarters to commemorate those who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.

As a token of appreciation for the Presidential visit, the Commanding Officer, Lieutenant-Colonel (Lt-Col) Atunaisa Vakatale, presented a plaque on behalf of the Fiji Batt 40 men and women to H.E.

The RFMF has served in Sinai for a total of 40 years. The first Battalion was deployed in 1982 under the leadership of Lt-Col Jim Sanday. With the advancement of peacekeeping, the RFMF continues to deploy troops to ensure that peace is preserved in several countries around the world.