28 Oct 2002

Samoa sends third contingent of United Nations peacekeepers to East Timor

11:30 am on 28 October 2002

Samoa's third contingent to serve as United Nations peacekeepers in East Timor is due to depart later this week.

The Commissioner of Police, Asi Blakelock, says it will be the smallest contingent of Samoan police officers to serve in the newly independent state, reflecting the calmer conditions there.

Officers who have served in East Timor marched through the capital yesterday to mark the 57th year of the United Nation's peacekeeping role.

The UN's resident co-ordinator presented the Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sailele, with a plaque to mark Samoa's contribution.

The latest contingent will serve in East Timor for 12 months.