Margarita Robles to Spanish troops in Lebanon: 'It is a source of pride to witness the magnificent work you do for peace and security'

Bravery, courage and dedication: these words sum up the Spanish military personnel deployed in southern Lebanon, whom Margarita Robles visited at the 'Miguel de Cervantes' Base, where she made a point of thanking them for their dedication and generosity in defending the country's security and peace, "despite the difficult times the region is currently facing".

Challenging times, such as last June, when a Serbian soldier died from injuries caused by a grenade explosion after being transported to a hospital in Beirut. During that attack, other soldiers were also wounded and were initially treated at the base's field hospital by Spanish military personnel, who are held in high regard by the Lebanese authorities, the Lebanese Armed Forces and the whole of civil society, "who know that you are not only outstanding professionals, but also a family to them".

Robles emphasised the high level of training of the nearly 700 Spaniards carrying out the mission in Lebanon under the United Nations flag. They operate with a clear objective: to safeguard stability through patrols and surveillance activities - particularly along the Blue Line - maintain direct coordination with the Lebanese Armed Forces, and ensure compliance with UN Security Council Resolution 1701.

"Thanks to your work, Spain contributes to global peace and to helping the civilian population - who always suffer the consequences of conflict situations first-hand and unjustly", stated the Minister for Defence, who maintains that "it is no coincidence that the Spanish Armed Forces are the most highly regarded institution. It makes no difference where you are deployed. Wherever you are, you represent a guarantee of professionalism. Your uniform provides a sense of security to everyone who has the opportunity to be near you".

Currently deployed in Lebanon is BRILIB XLV - generated by the 'Roncesvalles' Mountain Troops Command, with regiments from Pamplona and Jaca. This unit will serve as the final rotation of Spanish troops for the UNIFIL mission, the mandate of which concludes on 31 December.

Non official translation