Bangladesh elected member of UN Peace-Building Commission

The 31-member body would fill up a gap in the UN system, where there was no institutional mechanism as yet to oversee the transition from peace-keeping to sustainable development in post-conflict societies, what this body is mandated to do, said a message received here yesterday.

Dr Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury, ambassador and permanent representative of Bangladesh to the United Nations, while speaking to the media described the election of Bangladesh as yet another resounding recognition of the country by the International Community.

"Bangladesh was specially qualified to serve in this new commission for three reasons: First, we are currently the UN's top troop contributor in Peace-Keeping, Second, indigenous development ideas like micro-credit and non-formal education have emanated from our soil and are considered the 'best practices' that can transform post-conflict societies as has happened in our own case, and finally, our views on global issues are always seen to be constructive, and as a commission member we will continue in the same positive manner," he said.

The peace-building commission is expected to begin its work very soon. Intense negotiations among UN member states had preceded its establishment, the message said.

Ambassador Iftekhar Chowdhury said, "The success of the Commission will be the true test that will impact on all UN reforms."