UNITED NATIONS: United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has appointed Pakistan Army’s Major General Jawwad Ahmed Qazi, as the new Force Commander of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO), marking another significant recognition of Pakistan’s longstanding contribution to UN peacekeeping.
Major General Qazi brings more than 35 years of leadership, operational and command experience in the Pakistan Army, along with extensive experience in international peacekeeping.
His appointment reflects the confidence placed in Pakistani military leadership and its continued role in supporting global efforts for peace and stability.
UN Secretary General Appoints Major General Jawwad Ahmed Qazi, Hilal e Imtiaz (Military) of Pakistan as new Force Commander of MINURSO
UN Secretary General António Guterres has appointed Major General Jawwad Ahmed Qazi of Pakistan as the new Force Commander of the UN Mission for… pic.twitter.com/ImRjbptkZT
— Permanent Mission of Pakistan to the UN (@PakistanUN_NY) August 13, 2026
Throughout his career, Major General Qazi has held several senior command and strategic positions in Pakistan.
His previous appointments include General Officer Commanding of an Infantry Division, Force Commander Northern Areas and Director General in the Ministry of Defence.
He has also served in important staff and instructional roles, gaining broad experience in military command, planning and training.
His international peacekeeping experience includes service with the United Nations Transitional Administration in Eastern Slavonia, Baranja and Western Sirmium (UNTAES) in Croatia.
This earlier exposure to a complex UN peacekeeping environment adds valuable field experience to his new assignment with MINURSO.
MINURSO, established by the United Nations in 1991, plays an important role in supporting the UN’s efforts concerning the Western Sahara dispute.
As Force Commander, Major General Qazi will be responsible for the military component of the mission and will work alongside UN civilian and international partners in carrying out its mandate.
Pakistan has a long and proud history of contributing troops, officers and commanders to UN peacekeeping missions around the world.
The appointment of Major General Qazi further underscores Islamabad’s commitment to multilateralism and to the UN’s efforts to promote international peace and security.
For Pakistan, the appointment is not only a professional honour for a senior military officer but also a recognition of the country’s decades-long contribution to UN peacekeeping.
Pakistani personnel have consistently served in challenging missions across different regions, earning a reputation for professionalism, discipline and dedication.
