UN peacekeepers day observed in Bangladesh
Staff Reporter :
Bangladesh, in solidarity with the global community, observed the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers on Thursday with due solemnity, honouring the bravery, dedication, and sacrifices of its peacekeepers serving the UN missions around the world.
Meanwhile, European Union (EU) Embassy in Dhaka praised the commitment and professionalism of Bangladeshi peacekeepers, noting their instrumental role in maintaining global peace since 1988.
“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,” a statement said.
To mark the occasion, tributes poured in from Bangladesh’s President, Chief Adviser, Foreign Affairs Adviser, the chiefs of the three services, and other senior national and international officials.
Messages were also issued by the UN Secretary-General and the UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh, Gwyn Lewis. The day began at 6:15am with the “Peacekeepers Run/Rally 2025” held in Tejgaon, Dhaka, and in all divisional cities.
It was inaugurated by Home Affairs Adviser, Lieutenant General (Retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury.
Participants included peacekeepers from the armed forces and police, officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, UN agency representatives, and other dignitaries.
A grand reception was held at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center to honour injured peacekeepers.
The event opened with a recitation from the Holy Quran and a moment of silence for fallen peacekeepers. A special presentation on UN peacekeeping operations followed.
UN Resident Coordinator Gwyn Lewis delivered the welcome speech, followed by remarks from Acting Foreign Secretary Md Ruhul Alam Siddique.
As the most senior peacekeeper, Chief of Bangladesh Army General Waker-Uz-Zaman also spoke.
He said that Bangladesh’s contribution to peacekeeping has earned international recognition, and through continued participation in UN missions, the country remains firmly committed to maintaining global peace.
He paid solemn tribute to the 168 brave soldiers and police personnel who lost their lives in various peacekeeping missions, saying their sacrifices will be remembered with deep respect by the nation.