The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation congratulates Major General Lázaro on his appointment, following a rigorous selection process that took into account his qualifications, his significant experience at UNIFL and his knowledge of the international environment.
In turn, the appointment of a Spanish Major General is recognition of the commitment Spain has maintained since 1989 to UN peacekeeping operations. With more than 630 servicemen, Guardia Civil and national police officers deployed on the ground, our country continues to hold a senior position among the main contributors of troops. Spain is also the 12th leading financial contributor to the Peacekeeping Budget, and we pride ourselves on being among the countries that pays its full quota on time each year.
Spain also contributes to the architecture of peace and security of the UN through the Logistical Support Base in Quart de Poblet (Valencia) – the nerve centre of its communications with missions around the world.
For Spain, our commitment to UNIFL is particularly important. The Spanish Army was deployed in Lebanon in September 2006, following the adoption of Resolution 1701 by the United Nations Security Council, and has remained there continuously since that time, with a contingent that presently numbers more than 600 servicemen, as testimony to Spain’s firm commitment to stability in Lebanon and the region. The Miguel de Cervantes Base is among the best bases that the UN has on the ground. The Spanish contingent also includes servicemen from other countries, within the framework of the partnership agreement promoted by the UN.
Spain has deployed more than 25,000 servicemen to date, who have carried out more than 700 rapid impact projects for the Lebanese people.
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