The European Union and France on Thursday praised the dedication and professionalism of Bangladeshi peacekeepers serving in United Nations peacekeeping missions across the globe, as the world is observing the International Day of UN Peacekeepers.
鈥楽ince 1988, Bangladeshi peacekeepers have been playing an absolutely instrumental role in conflict zones around the world,鈥� said EU embassy in Dhaka in a statement.
鈥楾he EU is a steadfast supporter of the UN and of 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,鈥� read the statement.
Meanwhile, France has termed Bangladesh鈥檚 leadership in the United Nations peacekeeping and peacebuilding missions as exemplary.
鈥極n this occasion, the embassy of France extends its deep appreciation to Bangladesh for its exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to UN peacekeeping and peacebuilding efforts,鈥� said the French embassy in Dhaka in a statement.
It said that France remained strongly committed to United Nations peacekeeping operations and as a permanent member of the security council, France supported robust and modern peacekeeping missions and contributes significantly to their operational budget.
鈥楤angladesh鈥檚 vital contributions reflect our shared dedication to global peace and multilateral cooperation,鈥� read the statement.
Bangladesh, along with other nations, is observing the day with solemn respect to honour the service and sacrifice of peacekeepers.
The day 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 information, Bangladesh is the 3rd 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.
