Bangladesh to join UN's 'Gang Suppression Force' in Haiti: Army chief

Bangladesh Army, Navy and Police personnel will participate in the newly formed 'Gang Suppression Force' in Haiti under the UN peacekeeping framework, Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman has said.

He made the announcement at a discussion organised on the occasion of International UN Peacekeepers Day at Senakunja in Dhaka on Wednesday, June 10.

The army chief said Bangladesh's commitment to maintaining international peace and security is growing stronger. Currently, 4,212 Bangladeshi peacekeepers are serving in nine missions across various countries.

He also informed that members of the army, navy, air force and police are working together in peacekeeping missions. Female participation has also increased significantly. So far, 3,905 women have served as peacekeepers, with 294 currently deployed in various missions.

According to the army chief, Bangladesh has been actively participating in global peacekeeping since 1988 in response to UN calls and has now established itself as a trusted and recognised partner.

He said the challenges of peacekeeping missions are evolving. Therefore, Bangladesh's armed forces and police are working on modern training, technology use, medical and engineering support, and increasing the participation of female members.

The ISPR said International UN Peacekeepers Day was also observed in Bangladesh through various programmes. Due to the Eid-ul-Azha holiday in the government calendar this year, the programme was held on June 10.

A reception was given to the families of fallen peacekeepers and injured members at Senakunja in Dhaka Cantonment in the morning. Military and civilian officials, including the army chief, were present.