Fiji Military Forces (FMF) said Thursday more soldiers will be deployed to Iraq in the next few months to provide security for foreign diplomats based with the United Nations there.

According to Fijilive, a Suva-based news service, FMF spokesman, Major Neumi Leweni said there was a request for more Fiji soldiers to be sent to Iraq as part of the personal security detail for the UN officials.

Fiji's Interim Prime Minister and military Commander Bainimarama said Thursday UN has recognized that Fiji soldiers are a professional outfit worthy of the recognition and acclaim they have received all over the world as one of the best peacekeepers.

Commander Bainimarama reacted to recent media reports highlighting how the UN had rebuffed the Commonwealth's request to prevent using Fiji soldiers in its peacekeeping missions.

Fijian soldiers have been well-regarded around the world as natural combatants and have been praised for their courage while serving in war-torn nations.

Major Leweni said the UN did not look elsewhere because they understand the capability of the highly trained Fijian soldiers.

Soldiers are currently training for the deployment month with 15 expected to leave on the 25th and the rest in May.

Meanwhile a total of 56 soldiers will also leave for Sinai with 28 expected to leave on Monday and another 28 in about a fortnight.

The Sinai stint is part of the Multi National Forces and Observers deployed in the Sinai desert astride the borders of Israel and Egypt.

Source: Xinhua