The Honorable French Ambassador to Bangladesh, Mr. Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet, presented the honorary ‘National Defense Medal – Gold Level’ to Brigadier General Mohammad Azharul Islam, AFWC, psc, on behalf of the French government at a ceremony held at his residence on Tuesday (25 November 2025). Brigadier General Azhar has created history by becoming the first Bangladeshi Army officer to receive this medal.
Brigadier General Azhar served as the Deputy Chief of Staff (Support) at the Force Headquarters of the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Mali, West Africa, with the rank of Colonel during the period 2022–2023. During this period, he skillfully coordinated the logistics and support activities of more than 13,000 peacekeepers from various countries.
In 2022, the French military’s ‘Barkhane’ operation resulted in the UN mission taking over responsibility for several camps in northern Mali. During this complex redeployment process, the logistics team led by Brigadier General Azhar ensured the safe departure of the French contingent and the smooth deployment of UN personnel.
Later, in 2023, the decision to completely withdraw the UN peacekeeping mission from Mali was made, and within just six months, the professionalism, dedication and well-thought-out planning of the logistics team led by him enabled the safe withdrawal of all peacekeepers and their weapons and equipment.
The French government has honored Brigadier General Azhar in recognition of his significant contribution to this international peacekeeping operation. It is worth noting that he has successfully served in various countries, including Sudan, Ivory Coast, Somalia and most recently Mali.
