Dhaka, Jan 25 (V7N) — The contingent replacement process of the Bangladesh Air Force Aviation Transport Unit deployed in the United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo has officially begun.

On Sunday (January 25) morning, a total of 35 peacekeepers, out of the full contingent of 62 members, departed Dhaka in the first phase aboard an Ethiopian Airlines flight. The remaining 27 members are scheduled to leave for Congo on February 2, according to Air Force sources.

The newly deployed contingent is being led by Group Captain Mohammad Salim Javed. Prior to departure, a special prayer (doa) was held at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, seeking success and safety in the execution of their peacekeeping duties.

Senior officials of the Bangladesh Air Force were present at the airport to bid farewell to the departing peacekeepers. Addressing the contingent, Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal Hassan Mahmud Khan urged them to perform their responsibilities in the UN mission with discipline, honesty, and professionalism, while upholding the country’s reputation on the international stage.

Bangladesh remains one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping operations, with its armed forces playing a significant role in maintaining peace and stability in conflict-affected regions around the world.

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