Dhaka: Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has announced that the armed forces of Bangladesh have been recognized as a symbol of confidence by standing alongside the people of the country. Speaking at a reception held at Senakunja on the occasion of Armed Forces Day, Prof Yunus highlighted the role of the armed forces in recent anti-discrimination movements, emphasizing their support for students and the general populace. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Prof Yunus recalled the significant contributions of the armed forces since the country's independence, noting their involvement in nation-building, disaster management, and the protection of sovereignty. He reminisced about their pivotal role during the liberation war on November 21, 1971, when members of the armed forces joined with common citizens to launch a coordinated attack against Pakistani occupation forces. This date is now a milestone in the history of Bangladesh's liberation war. Prof Yunus elaborated on the origins of the armed forc es during the 1971 war, mentioning the collaborative attacks by army, navy, and air force members alongside ordinary people. He also acknowledged the guerrilla training provided by the armed forces to freedom fighters during the liberation war. The chief adviser paid tribute to the martyrs and valiant freedom fighters, including those injured, as well as the self-sacrificing individuals of the July-August revolution, whose efforts he claimed opened new avenues for national reconstruction. Over recent months, Prof Yunus noted the commendable efforts of the armed forces in addressing natural disasters and maintaining law and order. He praised their contributions to welfare-oriented activities, economic endeavors, and infrastructural development, expressing hope that they would continue to support democratic leadership and serve the nation. Prof Yunus extended his respect to the families of martyred armed forces members, emphasizing Bangladesh's commitment to peaceful coexistence with neighboring countries and the world. However, he assured that the country remains prepared to defend against external threats. He mentioned ongoing efforts to reorganize the armed forces, provide advanced training, and introduce modern technology. Highlighting Bangladesh's role in global peacekeeping, Prof Yunus shared that Bangladeshi peacekeepers have successfully completed 63 United Nations missions across 43 countries, and are currently deployed in 12 UN missions. He proudly noted Bangladesh's status as one of the largest contributors of women peacekeepers to UN missions. In his speech, Prof Yunus expressed gratitude to former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia for attending the Armed Forces Day reception despite her health challenges, and he wished her a speedy recovery.
