The European Union (EU) on Thursday praised the dedication and professionalism of Bangladeshi peacekeepers serving in United Nations peacekeeping missions across the globe, as the world observes the International Day of UN Peacekeepers.
"Since 1988, Bangladeshi peacekeepers have been playing an absolutely instrumental role in conflict zones around the world," The EU Embassy in Dhaka said in a statement on Thursday.
It said the EU is a steadfast supporter of the UN and the international rules-based order.
"On this International Day of UN Peacekeeping, we express our recognition of this work to end conflicts and save lives. Keeping us secure. Helping Bangladesh prosper," read the statement.
Bangladesh, along with other nations, is observing the day with solemn respect to honour the service and sacrifice of peacekeepers.
The International Day of UN Peacekeepers was established by the UN General Assembly in 2002 to pay tribute to all men and women serving in peacekeeping and to honour the memory of those who have lost their lives in the cause of peace.
According to the UN peacekeeping office, this year's theme for the day is "The Future of Peacekeeping."
According to UN data, Bangladesh is the third-largest contributor of military and police personnel to United Nations peacekeeping with more than 5,600, including 447 women, deployed to Abyei, the Central African Republic, Cyprus, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Lebanon and South Sudan.