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Published : 10 Jun 2026, 02:53 PM
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has pledged that Bangladesh's position in favour of peace, global stability and humanity in the international arena will remain “steadfast”.
“Bangladesh has always believed in the principles of independence, sovereignty and mutual respect among states. We are firmly committed to upholding the pledge enshrined in our Constitution towards world peace, international coexistence and justice,” he said.
“As an independent and self-respecting nation, Bangladesh’s position in favour of peace, global stability and humanity will remain strong in the international arena, by the grace of Allah. Bangladesh is fully committed to multilateral diplomacy and respect for the UN Charter in building a safe and peaceful world against all forms of aggression and conflict.”
The prime minister spoke at a programme marking the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers at the Senakunja in the Dhaka Cantonment on Wednesday. A documentary on Bangladesh’s role in UN peacekeeping operations was screened at the event.
Although the day is observed globally on May 29 each year, Bangladesh celebrated it on Jun 10 this year due to the Eid-ul-Azha holidays.
The prime minister paid tribute to the brave peacekeepers who lost their lives while serving the cause of world peace. He said their sacrifice would remain forever etched in the nation’s history and expressed profound sympathy to injured peacekeepers and the families of those killed.
“As members of UN peacekeeping missions, 175 Bangladeshi peacekeepers have laid down their lives since 1988. Many others have been injured. I pray for the eternal peace of their souls and extend my deepest condolences and sympathy to their bereaved families,” he said.
“The sacrifice of these martyrs is not only for Bangladesh. As members of UN peacekeeping forces, their selflessness will remain a shining example for peace-loving people across the world. Their sacrifice proves that peacekeepers under the UN flag remain committed to preserving peace anywhere in the world, at any cost.”
During the event, the prime minister handed over special honours to the widows of six Bangladeshi soldiers who died in Sudan in 2025 while serving in a UN mission. He also presented awards to members of the Armed Forces injured in recent peacekeeping operations, including the Sudan attack.
Later, the prime minister exchanged greetings virtually with Bangladeshi peacekeepers deployed in different countries and inquired about their well-being.
The prime minister said the achievements and recognition earned by Bangladeshi peacekeepers on the world stage had not come easily.
“They have carried out this noble and humanitarian responsibility through adversity, limitations and difficult challenges. Far from their families and often in hostile environments, they have demonstrated dedication, courage and professionalism in establishing world peace. I express my deep gratitude and thanks for your contribution.”
“To the best of my knowledge, more than 200,000 members of Bangladesh’s Armed Forces and police have successfully served in around 63 peacekeeping missions in 43 countries. At present, around 5,860 Bangladeshi peacekeepers are serving with honesty, dedication and sincerity in 10 UN peacekeeping missions around the world. Preparations are also under way to join a new mission in Haiti.”
He praised the role of women in peacekeeping operations, noting that nearly 11 percent of Bangladesh’s Armed Forces and police personnel deployed in conflict zones are women.
He expressed hope that their involvement would continue in the future.
Addressing peacekeepers serving abroad, the prime minister said :“I firmly believe this reflects your courage and deep sense of responsibility. This proud history of contributing to global peace was not built overnight. For nearly four decades, Bangladesh’s Armed Forces have been a name synonymous with trust and reliability in the international arena.”
‘Armed Forces: Symbol of Independence, Honour and Courage’
The prime minister said a nation’s Armed Forces symbolise its independence, honour and courage.
“The role of the military during Bangladesh’s Liberation War was historic. A major of the army proclaimed Bangladesh’s independence.
“I believe this pride and glory should remain a source of inspiration for our Armed Forces forever. It is their duty to ensure that this honour is never diminished.”
He said Bangladesh’s Armed Forces had earned international recognition through their contributions to UN peacekeeping missions.
“However, at different times and under different circumstances, certain activities involving or targeting the armed forces have created confusion among the public. Efforts have also existed both at home and abroad to damage the image of the Armed Forces.
“Overcoming all conspiracies, the army united under the leadership of the Proclaimer of Independence on Nov 7, 1975. Even though attempts were made at various times to undermine the unity of the armed forces, a devastating blow came in February 2009. What happened in Bangladesh as a result of that blow is known to all of us. For any uniformed force, professionalism, unity, discipline and chain of command are essential to maintaining honour and dignity.”
‘Bangladesh Belongs To All Of Us’
The prime minister said the country now has an opportunity to strengthen all state and constitutional institutions in a post-fascist Bangladesh by learning from the past.
“Whether serving in the Armed Forces, the government or public administration, we are all citizens of Bangladesh.
“This country belongs to all of us. Whether at home or abroad, our commitment should be to fulfil our responsibilities properly.”
He said the world was currently passing through a complex period marked by changing geopolitical realities and rapid technological evolution.
“UN peacekeeping missions now face more diverse and risky challenges. Alongside conventional warfare, cyber warfare, the misuse of artificial intelligence, media disinformation and security crises caused by climate change have emerged as new obstacles to global peace.
“Therefore, our future missions must be more modern, forward-looking and technology-driven. In this context, the government is gradually implementing initiatives to modernise the Armed Forces and police so they can perform effectively in peacekeeping missions and other international responsibilities.”
‘Peacekeepers Carry The Nation’s Reputation’
The prime minister said Bangladeshi peacekeepers had established a proud reputation on the world stage through their dedication, professionalism and sense of duty.
“Every member of a peacekeeping mission represents Bangladesh and carries the nation’s honour and dignity.
“I hope that those who serve abroad in the future will continue to uphold Bangladesh’s reputation before the world.”
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed, the prime minister’s defence advisor retired Brigadier General ATM Shamsul Islam, Army Chief Waker-Uz-Zaman and UN Resident Coordinator Gwyn Lewis were present at the event.
