Enhance technical expertise

President Abdul Hamid yesterday stressed the need for enhancing IT and technical expertise of Bangladeshi peacekeepers to compete with those from other countries.

He was addressing a programme marking the International Day of UN Peacekeepers in the city's Bangabandhu International Conference Centre. This year, the theme of the day was “70 Years of Service and Sacrifice”.

The president said it is important to raise technological and technical skills of peacekeepers in UN missions. The Bangladeshi peacekeepers would also have to take advanced training to prove their leading role in the face of competition from other peacekeepers in the world, he added.

Hamid said Bangladeshi peacekeepers working in different missions would have to take self initiatives to boost their skills in local and international languages to perform better.

President Abdul Hamid poses for a photograph with some family members of killed Bangladeshi peacekeepers in the city's Bangabandhu International Conference Centre yesterday. The programme was organised marking the International Day of UN Peacekeepers. Photo: PID

Stressing the importance of taking bold initiatives to ensure the maximum representation of female peacekeepers from Bangladesh in the global peacekeeping force, he said, “The United Nations has particularly focused on female representation. Currently, 157 women from Bangladesh are engaged in peacekeeping activities. The photos of Flight Lieutenant Nayma Haque and Flying Officer Tamanna-e-Lutfi on the UN website highlighted the position of our women peacekeepers.”

The president said peacekeepers have to earn respect from fellow colleagues for their professional skills. “At the same time, you [peacekeepers] must attain the love of local people apart from bringing peace. The foreign currency, you are earning, is playing a significant role in our economy.

“It is the outcome of your courage, heroism, unparallel professionalism and skill which has turned Bangladesh as one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping operations compared to other countries. You have to keep this pride and respect unhurt.”

Foreign Minister AH Mahmood Ali and UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh Mia Seppo, Chief of Army Staff Gen Abu Belal Muhammad Shafiul Huq, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Mohammad Nizamuddin Ahmed, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Abu Esrar and secretaries concerned to the president were present.

A one-minute silence was observed during the programme to show respect to the peacekeepers who laid down their lives.

A video documentary titled “Bangladesh in Global Peace” was displayed during the ceremony.