On 16 September, MINURSO observed Mexico’s national day by raising the Mexican flag at the Mission HQ in Laayoune.

This Day commemorates when Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla — a Catholic priest and leader of the resistance — gave “the Cry of Dolores” speech in 1810, demanding the end of colonial rule and calling on Mexicans to fight for their independence..

Mexico’s first major contribution to UN peacekeeping was in 1992, when it deployed more than 100 police to the UN Observer Mission in El Salvador (ONUSAL). Currently, 21 military and police officers are deployed in UN peacekeeping operations including with MINURSO.

The green color in Mexican flag represents hope and victory, the white stands for unity, and the red pays tribute to the national heroes who have fought and died for Mexico over the years.

Feliz Dia Nacional Mexico!