The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has presented the Armed Forces of Malta with plaques recognizing the courageous commitment of the AFM soldiers and personnel in saving the lives of refugees and migrants at sea.
An informal presentation was held on Friday 23rd September at the Air Wing Head Quarters in Luqa.
The AFM has been directly involved in rescue operations and disembarkation in Malta of some 17,000 person since 2005. It is estimated that around 30% of these persons are still in Malta. Despite limited arrivals of migrants to Malta since 2015, the AFM remains actively involved in search and rescue operations.
“UNHCR is commending the important work that the Armed Forces of Malta carries in saving lives on a daily basis.”
“The Mediterranean Sea remains a dangerous place where many lives are lost. This year alone some 3,500 people have died or gone missing in their attempt to find refuge in Europe,” Beat Schuler, UNHCR Representative to Malta, said. “However, it is certain that if it was not for the work carried out by the European Member States, including that of Malta and the AFM, the number of people perishing during the dangerous crossing would be much higher.”
“The Maltese people should be proud of the men and women of the AFM, who have a vital humanitarian role in saving hundreds and thousands of lives at sea on a daily basis.”
Share on Facebook Share on Twitter
