Bhutan’s arm forces are now participating in United Nations peacekeeping missions, the first of its kind for Bhutan. Two officers from the Royal Bhutan Army and one officer from the Royal Body Guard left the country to serve as peacekeepers in the Middle East and Africa. The assignments will mark the first and historic participation of Bhutanese Armed Force officers as UN peacekeepers.
Prior to their departure, His Majesty the King granted an audience to the three officers.
His Majesty the King said that they must represent the country well by discharging their duties professionally and with the highest standards of excellence.
The Prime Minister, Tshering Tobgay, also met with the officers and said it is a proud moment for the country, and reflects its long-standing support and commitment for the UN and its obligation as member of the international community to respond to crisis and humanitarian disasters.
Lyonchhen said as the first Bhutanese UN peacekeepers, there are high expectations from their participation.
UN peacekeeping operation which began in 1948 has become a cornerstone of the international response to conflict resolution.