Lt Gen Navin Sachdeva Discusses India’s 28-Year UNIFIL Peacekeeping Role with Lebanon Ambassador Noor Rahman Sheikh
India has reaffirmed its support for United Nations peacekeeping in Lebanon, as Ambassador Noor Rahman Sheikh met Lieutenant General Navin Sachdeva, AVSM, SM, Director General Staff Duties (DG SD), at the Embassy of India in Lebanon. Their discussions highlighted the Indian Battalion’s 28 years of service with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
Sachdeva was accompanied by a delegation. The meeting focused on India’s contribution to UN peacekeeping in southern Lebanon, particularly through INDBATT, whose record over nearly three decades has been characterised by professionalism, dedication and service.
The discussions covered the Indian contingent’s role in supporting UNIFIL’s mandate, contributing to stability in the region and building cooperation with local communities. Colonel Prasoon Singh, SM, Contingent Commander (CONTICO) of INDBATT, represented the battalion at the meeting.
Singh’s participation reflected the contingent’s continuing work under the United Nations mandate and its efforts to maintain strong ties with the local population. Indian peacekeepers in Lebanon have supported peace and stability while undertaking community engagement initiatives intended to strengthen trust and cooperation between UN forces and residents.
India is a longstanding contributor to UN peacekeeping missions worldwide. Its military personnel have received recognition for their professionalism, discipline and humanitarian assistance in conflict-affected areas. INDBATT’s 28 years under UNIFIL form part of that wider contribution.
The engagement also highlighted the enduring relationship between India and Lebanon, founded on mutual respect and diplomatic cooperation, as well as a shared commitment to international peace and security.
INDBATT continues to serve in a challenging operational environment, supporting communities and contributing to stability as part of the UNIFIL mission. The meeting at the Indian Embassy reaffirmed India’s intention to continue backing the United Nations’ peacekeeping objectives in Lebanon and to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.
