Dhaka: Praising the armed forces for their contributions to safeguarding national security, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today directed them to protect the sovereignty of the country and uphold the dignity of the constitution, rising above party-affiliation and opinions. He also called upon the members of the armed forces to maintain public trust and stay committed to serving the nation with integrity, dedication, and sacrifice.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Tarique Rahman, who is also the ruling BNP chairman, made the call while addressing a Darbar for the military officials at the Dhaka Cantonment Auditorium. The Prime Minister's Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Ruman noted that earlier, on his arrival at the venue, the premier was received by his Defence Adviser Brigadier General (Retd) Dr. AKM Shamsul Islam, Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral M Nazmul Hassan, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan, and the Principal Staff Officer of the Armed Forces Division.
"The armed forces are not the property of any particular individual, family, or party. They are a symbol of the strength and dignity of an independent state," the Prime Minister said. He emphasized the importance of commitment to the constitution and the unwavering trust of the people as the core base for the armed forces. "Protecting the independence and sovereignty of the country is the sole and sacred responsibility of each of our members," Rahman added, pledging to build a "modern and time-befitting" armed force for the nation.
The Prime Minister expressed his vision of developing Bangladesh into a state that will stand tall in the world, with international relations based on mutual respect, interest, and equality. He highlighted the immense role that the armed forces play in achieving this goal, stating that a modern, disciplined, and professional military force will ensure a safer and more dignified Bangladesh.
Addressing the armed forces personnel at all levels, Rahman assured them of the government's commitment to ensuring their respect, professional dignity, and welfare. He urged them to love Bangladesh above party affiliations and opinions, asserting that the country's interests must always come first. Rahman expressed confidence that with discipline, capability, self-respect, and patriotism, Bangladesh would move forward, with the armed forces as a proud partner in this journey.
The Prime Minister also emphasized the need for continuous improvement of professional skills, strategic intelligence, and knowledge-based capabilities to meet contemporary and future security challenges. He urged the armed forces to refrain from corruption, negligence of duty, and abuse of power.
In conclusion, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of preserving the glorious history of the armed forces as an inspiration for future generations and emphasized the need for readiness as vigilant guards of democratic responsibility and the sovereignty of the country.