KATHMANDU: After the announcement of the closure of the Mali peacekeeping mission, Nepali soldiers from the 9th battalion stationed in Mali have started returning in response to the United Nations’ call.

According to Nepali Army sources, as many as 81 peacekeepers led Chitra Kumar Karki returned to Nepal on Thursday via a United Nations-chartered plane, carrying arms and supplies.

This move comes in light of the United Nations’ decision to conclude the peacekeeping mission in Mali.

In alignment with the United Nations’ directive, a total of 156 personnel from the Nepali Army contingent, along with 168 staff and observers, are currently in the process of returning home.

The first team has already arrived in Nepal.

Nepal, standing as the second-largest contributor among member states, plays a significant role in providing troops for United Nations peacekeeping missions worldwide.

Furthermore, Nepal boasts a commendable record with 582 women deployed as peacekeepers, marking the highest number of women participating in peacekeeping efforts.