Belgium to Take Command of UNIFIL”s Naval Mission
Belgium would lead the naval component of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon at the end of February after the expiration of France”s 6-month leadership, UNIFIL spokesperson Yasmina Bouziane said Thursday.
UNIFIL”s naval force has been led by the European Maritime Force (EUROMARFOR) since Feb. 29, 2008 when it was under Italy”s command.
Italy”s six-month leadership of the mission ended in Sept. 2008 and the command of the contingent was passed to France.
Belgium is expected to assume the leadership of the mission after France”s mandate ends in Feb 28, 2009.
As a result of the leadership transfer, several changes will be made to the contribution of different countries to UNIFIL”s naval force, according to Bouziane.