Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman has said that members of the Bangladesh Army, Navy, and Police will participate in the newly formed "Gang Suppression Force" in Haiti, an initiative under the United Nations peacekeeping operations.
He disclosed the information on Wednesday while speaking at a discussion organized at Senakunja in Dhaka to mark the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers.
The army chief said: "Bangladesh's commitment to maintaining international peace and security is becoming stronger. At present, a total of 4,212 Bangladeshi peacekeepers is serving in nine missions in different countries around the world. They include members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Police."
He said: "Bangladesh is also playing an important role in increasing women's participation in peacekeeping. So far, a total of 3,905 female peacekeepers has successfully served, and currently 294 women are deployed in various missions."
General Waker also said: "Responding to the call of the United Nations, Bangladesh has been actively participating in global peacekeeping since 1988, and it is now a recognized and accepted name."
He added: "The challenges of peacekeeping missions are changing rapidly. Therefore, the Bangladesh Armed Forces and Police are continuing efforts to expand modern training, the use of technology, medical and engineering support, and the participation of female peacekeepers."
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Bangladesh observed the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers with due dignity, alongside other countries around the world. As May 29 coincided with the Eid-ul-Azha holiday according to the government calendar, this year's observance was held on Wednesday. On this day, the outstanding contributions of peacekeepers from all countries participating in UN peacekeeping operations are remembered with deep respect.
As part of the day's program, a reception was held at 10am. on Wednesday at Senakunja in Dhaka Cantonment for the families of fallen peacekeepers and injured peacekeepers. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman attended the event as the chief guest.
The welcome address was delivered by UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh Carol Flore-Smereczniak. General Waker-Uz-Zaman spoke as the senior-most peacekeeper. Special remarks were delivered by Defense Adviser Brigadier General (retd) Dr AKM Shamsul Islam and State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam.
The event was attended by foreign diplomats, the chiefs of the three services, the Principal Staff Officer of the Armed Forces Division, the Inspector General of Police (routine charge), senior officials from various ministries and the Office of the UN Resident Coordinator, as well as military and civilian officials.