Transfer of Authority in the UNIFIL's Indian Battalion

A transfer of command takes place in the UNIFIL's Indian Battalion

(Source: Annahar newspaper)

The 9th SIKH LI, which formed INDBATT 16 in UNIFIL, handed over charge to 8thDOGRA, which will constitute INDBATT 17, on 1 June, 2015. The transfer of authority ceremony took place at the Indian battalion headquarters located at Ibl-Al-Saqi in Nakkar area (South Lebanon).

In presence of the Force Commander of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) Major-General Luciano Portolano, the Indian Amabssador to Lebanon H.E. Anita Nayar, MP Ali Asseiran,  Hasbaya district commissioner Walid Al- Ghafir as well as officers and other dignitaries.

Major-General Portolano praised the Lebanese Army, saying that the military institution is committed to the implementation of the UN Security Council resolution 1701 despite the challenges it is facing. He added that the cooperation between the UNIFIL and the army is necessary to ensure the success of the UNIFIL. It should be noted that the ceremony included a traditional dance performed by the Indian battalion band.