24 June 2005
Lieutenant Colonel Jim Blackwell leaves New Zealand today to take up a UN posting in Kosovo.
He will take over from Commander Andrew Brown at the UN Headquarters in Pristina.
Commander Brown is due to return to New Zealand early next month.
As a Military Liaison Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Blackwell will monitor international security forces deployed to Kosovo and will liaise with civil authorities and military personnel.
New Zealand’s commitment to Kosovo dates back to 1999, when the UN Security Council authorised the establishment of an interim civil administration, the UN Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK).
New Zealand contributes one observer.
In May this year the Government approved the current contribution to UNMIK until June 2006.
ENDS
For further information contact Commander Sandy McKie, Defence Press Officer:
04 496 0299 or 021 441 523