The founding President of Namibia, Dr. Sam Nujoma congratulated Bangladesh for its successful contribution to international peacekeeping.
In a video message, Dr Nujoma applauded Bangladeshi peacekeepers during a commemoration held in Spectra Convention Centre, Dhaka on Thursday.
The 90-year old Namibian liberation leader said: "Thirty years ago, Bangladesh sent its first ever contingent of civilian police peacekeepers to the UN Transition Assistance Group (UNTAG) in Namibia.
To every Bangladeshi officer in that mission, I thank you for the excellent service that you provided during the transition period that led to the independence of my country."
Congratulating for this milestone, he also added: "I recall vividly, the Bangladesh contingent commander, and UNTAG Chief Liaison Officer Mr AYBI Siddiqi. It was indeed historical to meet Mr Siddiqi, his wife Rehana, and his children Husna, and Lutfey."
The event was hosted by the family of Mr AYBI Siddiqi, former IGP, and Secretary to the government.
Current and former senior members of the government, civil service, police service, ambassadors, and heads of diplomatic missions, business and social enterprise leaders were amongst the celebrants.
In a separate video message, Mr Shiv Mukherjee, the first Indian High Commissioner to Namibia, recalled the role of the UN mission in helping to “liberate the last colony in Africa.”
He also praised Bangladesh, and said: "Bangladesh’s significant contributions to international peacekeeping need to be noticed.
