SUVA, June 25 (Xinhua) -- Thousands of people on Tuesday braved the drizzling rain and strong winds to join President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau and Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama to officially farewell Fijian troops leaving for Syrian Golan Heights at Albert Park in Suva.
A military parade went through the capital city.
President Nailatikau reminded the soldiers that they would be working in a volatile environment.
"The situation calls for dedication, teamwork and courage and the highest level of discipline both regimental and personal," the president said, encouraging them to be professional in carrying out their duties.
"We have always risen to the occasion and earned the respect of those around us. I am confident that on this mission you will do the same," Nailatikau added.
He also commended relatives of the soldiers who braved the rain to farewell their loved ones.
"Your strength in keeping the home base safe and secure will contribute in a big way to the success of our troops on deployment. It is heartening to see you turn out in numbers today. This is a reassuring sign of your support. The nation thanks you," Nailatikau said.
In his address to the nation Tuesday evening, Prime Minister Bainimarama pointed out Fiji's contribution to United Nations peacekeeping efforts.
"When the UN asks us to help its peacekeeping efforts, Fiji says 'yes' because of our commitment to be good global citizens," said Bainimarama.
"That task will be a difficult one -- to keep the peace in the Golan Heights that separates Israel and Syria. For four decades, the United Nations has been responsible for managing the state of peace there. But because of the increased potential for peace to be threatened in the Golan Heights due to the internal political upheaval in Syria, the UN has called for more peacekeepers and Fiji has answered that call," the prime minister said.
The soldiers will depart Fiji on Wednesday, according to the Ministry of Information.
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