ISLAMABAD, Dec. 15 (Xinhua) -- Pakistan on Monday strongly condemned the heinous attack against Bangladeshi peacekeepers in Sudan on Saturday.
Six peacekeepers from the Bangladesh Army were killed and eight others were injured after attackers targeted a United Nations base in Abyei, Sudan, the Bangladesh Army confirmed on Saturday night.
"Pakistan expresses its deepest condolences to the government and people of Bangladesh on the loss of precious lives, and stands in solidarity with the bereaved families in this tragic hour," Pakistani Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said in a statement.
He said that the UN peacekeepers remained at the forefront of international efforts to prevent conflict, protect civilians and support peace under the UN flag.
"We pay homage to the ultimate sacrifice made in the line of duty for peace and stability in the region. Pakistan calls for a swift investigation to identify the perpetrators of the cowardly attack and to hold those responsible accountable," he added.
The spokesperson also reiterated that Pakistan would continue to work closely with members of the UN Security Council and the international community to ensure the safety and security of all UN peacekeepers. ■