Pakistan on Wednesday said that the foreign affairs ministry and its permanent mission to the United Nations in New York are in touch with the UN authorities to expedite the early repatriation of the remains of Pakistani peacekeepers, who died in a helicopter crash in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

In a statement, the Foreign Office said it was also in touch with the UN to ascertain the details and cause of the incident.

“A Pakistan Army helicopter deployed on peacekeeping duties with the United Nations Organisation Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo crashed during a reconnaissance operation on March 29. There were eight UN peacekeepers – including six Pakistani troops on board, none of whom survived the unfortunate crash. The exact cause of the incident is yet to be ascertained,” it read.

The FO extended its “deepest and heartfelt” condolences to the families of the deceased who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for the cause of maintaining international peace. “157 of Pakistan’s bravest peacekeepers have already fallen in the line of duty while serving in UN missions,” read the official handout.

As one of the top troop-contributing countries, it added that Pakistan deeply valued the vital role played by the ‘blue helmets’ in maintaining security in many conflict-ridden areas around the world.

“Pakistan is proud of its long-standing and consistent contributions to UN peacekeeping spanning over six decades. Since 1960, over 200,000 of our servicemen have served with honour and valour in 46 UN Missions in almost all continents of the world. Through their professionalism and dedication, our peacekeepers have always distinguished themselves in every mission they have participated,” the FO said.