Bangladesh condemns attack on peacekeepers in Sudan
The Bangladesh government will continue working closely with the UN to ensure the swift repatriation of the bodies of the deceased and proper medical care for those injured in the attack.
Bangladesh has strongly condemned a "terrorist attack" on a United Nations base in Sudan's Abyei region that killed six Bangladeshi peacekeepers and injured eight others on Saturday (13 December).
In a statement, Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus expressed deep shock and sorrow over the casualties among members of the Bangladesh Army serving under the UN mission.
He said, "The fallen peacekeepers embraced martyrdom while carrying out the noble duty of establishing peace and stability.
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"Bangladesh's immense contribution to UN peacekeeping operations is internationally recognised. The sacrifice of our brave peacekeepers is a source of national pride as well as profound grief," the chief adviser said, offering prayers for the departed souls and condolences to their families.
He also wished a speedy recovery for the injured.
Yunus further said Bangladesh has already requested the UN to ensure the highest level of medical care for the wounded peacekeepers and assured that the government would stand beside their families during this difficult time.
He described attacks on peacekeepers as a grave crime against international peace and humanity, urging the UN and the international community to take stronger measures to ensure the safety of peacekeeping personnel.
"The Bangladesh government will continue working closely with the UN to ensure the swift repatriation of the bodies of the deceased and proper medical care for those injured in the attack," the statement added.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also issued a separate statement condemning the attack, saying Bangladesh "mourns the death of her valiant sons" and extends deep condolences to the bereaved families.
The ministry confirmed that the casualties occurred when terrorists carried out a drone attack on a UN base in the Abyei area of Sudan.
"The government, through Bangladesh's Permanent Mission to the UN in New York, has requested the UN to ensure the best possible treatment for the injured peacekeepers. The mission is maintaining close contact with the UN to provide all necessary support to the Bangladeshi contingent," the statement reads.
