Japanese Peacekeeping Force Contingent Leaves for Golan Heights

Text of report in English by Japanese news agency Kyodo

Kobe, Aug. 19 Kyodo – Defence Minister Yuriko Koike attended a sendoff ceremony in Itami, Hyogo Prefecture, on Sunday for a Self- Defence Force contingent to join the UN peacekeeping mission in the Golan Heights.

Koike handed the contingent’s flag to Maj. Yoshifumi Ogura, who will command the group for about six moths from late August, and said she hopes the mission will fulfil its task “with an awareness that the work serves as a basis for peace and stability in the international community.”

Since February 1996, SDF members have been participating in the UN Disengagement Observer Force in the Golan Heights. The UNDOF was launched in 1974 to maintain a cease-fire between Israel and Syria.

The 43-member Japanese contingent will provide airlift and other logistical support for the UN operations.

Originally published by Kyodo News Service, Tokyo, in English 0546 19 Aug 07.

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