Lithuanian peacekeeping force sets off for Iraq

44 Lithuanian peacekeepers set off for Iraq yesterday where they will operate with a team of Danish peacekeepers in the British occupied zone near Basra.

According to the press office of the Lithuanian Defense Ministry, the peacekeepers are part of the motorized infantry battalion. They left from Denmark together with their Danish colleagues on a military plane.

Their peacekeeping mission may last up to 18 months. As well as individual weapons they are also carrying protection from biological and chemical weapons. The aims of the peacekeepers are to guard facilities, maintain public order and provide humanitarian aid. The press office added that another peacekeeping force is expected to depart for Iraq in August. This subdivision will be deployed in the Polish contingent between Basra and Baghdad.