For many years, Norway has been engaged in reconciliation efforts in the Middle East, and has taken part in the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO) since 1956. The Government attaches considerable importance to Norway’s participation in UN-led operations.
Vote of confidence
Last week, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon appointed the Norwegian major general Robert Mood as Head of Mission and Chief of Staff of UNTSO. One of the organisation’s tasks is to monitor ceasefire agreements in the region.
“History shows how long conflicts in this region can continue. My ambition can only be to do my best, and – together with many others – to contribute to the development of peace in the area,” said a highly motivated Robert Mood to the Norwegian daily newspaper Dagsavisen. Major General Mood will take up his new post in the middle of February.
Major General Robert Mood on an inspection tour in Afghanistan. Photo: Tomas Beck
“In recent years, Major General Mood has taken active part in the Norwegian-led international efforts to strengthen the UN’s ability to lead multidimensional and integrated peace operations. I believe this will prove to be a considerable strength in this position,” said the Norwegian Minister of Defence, Anne-Grete Strøm-Erichsen.
Third Norwegian to lead UNTSO
The UN appointment builds on the strong Norwegian engagement in efforts to bring about peace and stability in the Middle East, and this will be the third time a Norwegian general leads UNTSO. Lieutenant Generals Odd Bull and Martin O. Vadseth have previously held this important post, from 1963 to 1970, and from 1987 to 1990, respectively.
Today, UNTSO is made up of 151 military observers from 23countries, who are posted in South Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Egypt and Israel. UNTSO was established in 1948, and is one of the UN’s oldest peacekeeping organisations.