Dhaka: Prime Minister’s Defence Adviser Brigadier General (retd) Dr AKM Shamsul Islam today underscored the need for an integrated initiative involving all state institutions to ensure good governance, national security, and sustainable development.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr Shamsul Islam emphasized that all institutions of the state must work in a coordinated manner. He stated that the joint efforts of the civil administration and the military are prerequisites for ensuring national security and stability. His remarks came during a session of the ongoing Deputy Commissioners’ (DCs) Conference at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in the capital.
Highlighting the importance of civil-military coordination, the adviser noted that such collaboration is essential to accelerate good governance, maintain law and order, and achieve development goals. He stressed the need for a comprehensive and multidimensional approach to national security in the face of evolving global challenges.
Dr Shamsul Islam called for adopting a ‘Whole of Government Approach,’ emphasizing that coordinated efforts of all institutions are necessary to implement the defense capabilities outlined in the election manifesto under the Prime Minister’s directive, according to a release issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Directorate this afternoon.
He mentioned the government’s aim to build a defense system ensuring ‘Credible Deterrence’ to discourage potential adversaries from aggression. Additionally, he urged DCs to avoid administrative delays and ensure efficiency, transparency, and accountability in their duties.
Referring to armed forces personnel as ‘Citizens in Uniform,’ the adviser recognized them as an integral part of society who dedicate themselves to the nation through discipline, sacrifice, and patriotism. He paid tribute to the martyrs of the War of Independence and appreciated the continued contributions of the armed forces in safeguarding sovereignty and assisting during disasters.
Dr Shamsul Islam concluded by stating that a modern, safe, and self-respecting Bangladesh requires good governance, effective administration, and a strong defense system. He called upon the DCs to work with professionalism, honesty, and a strong sense of responsibility to gain public trust and strengthen field-level administration.
The session was attended by Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman, Navy Chief Admiral M Nazmul Hasan, and Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan. Principal Staff Officer of the Armed Forces Division Lieutenant General Mir Mushfiqur Rahman, Defence Secretary, and other senior officials were also present, while Cabinet Secretary Nasimul Gani presided over the session.
Speakers at the session highlighted the crucial role of mutual trust and cooperation between civil and military administrations in maintaining sovereignty, ensuring law and order, and responding to disasters. They also underscored the need for coordinated efforts to address emerging challenges such as cyber security, climate change, and terrorism.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman inaugurated the four-day DCs’ Conference on May 3.