Armed Forces Must Protect the Glory of Our Peacekeepers: PM Tarique Rahman

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman stated that Bangladeshi peacekeepers have earned global recognition by overcoming severe challenges and limitations, emphasizing that it is the primary duty of the armed forces to preserve this hard-won glory.

The Prime Minister made these remarks as the chief guest at an event marking the International Day of UN Peacekeepers 2026, held at Senakunja in Dhaka Cantonment on Wednesday (June 10). Highlighting Bangladesh's immense contribution to global stability, the Prime Minister noted that over 206,000 peacekeepers from the nation's armed and police forces have successfully served in 63 missions across 43 countries. Currently, 4,412 Bangladeshi peacekeepers are actively deployed in nine missions worldwide, with preparations underway for a new mission in Haiti. He highly praised the female peacekeepers, who make up about 11 percent of the contingent, stating that their courageous participation has added a new dimension to UN peacekeeping operations. Reflecting on the nation's history, Rahman highlighted the military's historic role in Bangladesh's Liberation War, recalling that an army major first declared the nation's independence.

Calling this legacy a source of eternal inspiration, he emphasized the critical importance of discipline and a strong chain of command. He recalled how the army stood united under the proclaimer of independence on November 7, 1975. Rahman urged the forces to move forward by overcoming all internal and external conspiracies, referencing the tragic attack on the armed forces in February 2009. He warned that unwavering professionalism, unity, and strict adherence to the chain of command are essential for uniformed personnel. Addressing the current global landscape, the Prime Minister observed that shifting geopolitics and rapid technological advancements have made UN missions far more complex and risky.

Beyond traditional warfare, he identified cyber warfare, the misuse of artificial intelligence, media propaganda, and climate-induced security crises as emerging threats to world peace. To counter these challenges, the government is implementing phased initiatives to modernize the armed and police forces, ensuring they remain highly effective in international arenas. Reiterating the nation’s foreign policy, Rahman stated that Bangladesh firmly believes in independence, sovereignty, and mutual respect among nations. As outlined in the Constitution, the country remains deeply committed to world peace and international coexistence. He reaffirmed Bangladesh's full support for multilateral diplomacy and the United Nations in building a safe, conflict-free world.

During the ceremony, the Prime Minister paid profound tribute to the heroic peacekeepers who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. He presented honorary awards to the wives of six soldiers who were martyred in Sudan in 2025 during a UN mission. He also honored armed forces personnel injured in recent and ongoing missions. Furthermore, Rahman virtually exchanged greetings with Bangladeshi peacekeepers currently deployed across various countries. The special event was attended by senior government officials, military and police chiefs, foreign diplomats, and international delegations, including the UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh.