UN peacekeeping chief to visit top three contributors of personnel

The United Nations peacekeeping chief next week pays an official visit to Pakistan, Bangladesh and India, the three top national contributors of forces to the many missions with which the world body seeks to restore stability and democracy in conflict-riven countries.

“One of the main purposes of Mr. Le Roy’s trip is to thank the countries for their long-standing dedication to peacekeeping and engage in an open discussion regarding current and future peacekeeping challenges,” spokesperson Michele Montas said of Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations Alain Le Roy’s visits.

As of the end of August the three countries contributed nearly a third of the 95,500 UN peacekeepers currently stationed around the world in 17 missions either directed or supported by the Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO).

Pakistan’s share totalled nearly 10,600 in 11 missions, Bangladesh’s more than 9,500 in 10, and India’s over 8,760 in nine.