Pakistan Army Major General Jawwad Ahmed Qazi has been appointed the new force commander of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO), Pakistan’s Permanent Mission to the UN announced on August 13.

The appointment was made by UN Secretary-General António Guterres. Qazi brings more than 35 years of leadership, operational and UN peacekeeping experience to the role.

Major General Jawwad Ahmed Qazi’s Experience

According to Pakistan’s UN mission, Major General Qazi has held several senior command, staff and instructional positions in Pakistan and abroad.

His previous appointments include:

  • General officer commanding of an infantry division
  • Force commander in the Northern Areas
  • Director general at the Ministry of Defence
  • UN peacekeeping service in Croatia

He previously served with the United Nations Transitional Administration for Eastern Slavonia, Baranja and Western Sirmium (UNTAES) in Croatia.

Pakistan’s UN mission said his extensive experience in military leadership and peacekeeping would support his new international assignment.

What Is MINURSO?

MINURSO is the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara. The mission was established in the context of the long-running dispute over Western Sahara and the proposed referendum on self-determination.

Western Sahara, a former Spanish colony, remains a disputed territory largely controlled by Morocco. The Polisario Front, backed by Algeria, seeks independence for the Sahrawi people and has called for a UN-supervised referendum.

The dispute dates back decades, with Morocco and the Polisario Front taking opposing positions over the territory's future.

Pakistan’s Role in UN Peacekeeping

Pakistan has long contributed military personnel and leadership to UN peacekeeping missions around the world.

The country's Permanent Mission to the UN said Pakistan remains committed to supporting international peace and stability through the deployment of trained contingents and experienced peacekeeping leaders.

Qazi's appointment to lead the MINURSO force represents another senior Pakistani military role within the UN peacekeeping system.

FAQs

Who is the new UN force commander in Western Sahara?
Pakistan Army Major General Jawwad Ahmed Qazi has been appointed the new force commander of MINURSO.

Who appointed Major General Jawwad Ahmed Qazi?
UN Secretary-General António Guterres appointed him to the position.

How much experience does Major General Qazi have?
He has more than 35 years of leadership, operational and UN peacekeeping experience.

What is MINURSO?
MINURSO is the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara, established to support the UN process concerning the disputed territory.