Margarita Robles reiterates the importance of maintaining the UN Interim Force mission in Lebanon

The Minister for Defence, Margarita Robles, in a group photo of her visit to the Cerro Muriano base in Cordoba

The Minister for Defence, Margarita Robles, visited the Cerro Muriano base in Cordoba to recognise the work of the 'Guzmán el Bueno' X Brigade contingent, which has been deployed on the separation line between Lebanon and Israel as part of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) mission.

Margarita Robles said that "if the Armed Forces are the most highly valued institution, it is thanks to each and every one of you who, with your professionalism and empathy, have earned the respect, recognition and affection of our country and of those where you are deployed."

At this point, the minister referred to Lebanon, from where the brigade recently returned. UNIFIL's mission, which he described as fundamental: "Thanks to your peacekeeping work, Spain contributes to peace in the world and to being able to help the civilian population, which always suffers, closely and unjustly, the consequences of a conflict situation," said Robles, who thanked them for their humanitarian, health and training support. "It is the same in Valencia as in Lebanon or Latvia, where there is now a second contingent of the brigade. You are a guarantee. Your uniform provides security to all those who have the opportunity to be close to you."

During their six-month mission, approximately 600 men and women of the 'Guzmán el Bueno' X conducted patrols, both on foot and in vehicles, to permanently monitor the separation line between Lebanon and Israel (Blue Line).

The Spanish contingent is also providing support to the Lebanese Armed Forces to ensure compliance with UN Resolution 1701 and to avoid situations that could lead to an escalation of tension between the parties, guaranteeing humanitarian access to civilian populations and the voluntary and safe return of displaced persons.

The 'Guzmán el Bueno', one of the Army's most modern and powerful units, was created 40 years ago as a mechanised infantry brigade and is currently part of the 'Castillejos' Division.

Non official translation