Savar, Oct 18 (V7N)- Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has said Bangladesh will prioritise its national interests, sovereignty and self-respect while strengthening friendly relations with countries around the world on the basis of mutual respect and equality.
He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to making the armed forces more efficient, professional and technologically advanced to safeguard the country’s independence and sovereignty.
The prime minister made the remarks at the National Standard Award ceremony at Savar Cantonment on Sunday morning.
Speaking at the event, Tarique Rahman recalled his upbringing in a military family, saying he had grown up in an environment closely connected with the armed forces. He described the National Standard as a symbol of the country’s independence and sovereignty, intended to inspire personnel to carry out their duties with dedication and concentration.
He said every member of the armed forces had a solemn responsibility to uphold the honour and dignity of the national flag.
Highlighting the historical role of the armed forces, the prime minister said their contribution was inseparable from Bangladesh’s birth and history. He referred to the events of 1971, including the role of Ziaur Rahman during the Liberation War, and said the achievements of the armed forces were a source of pride for the entire nation.
The prime minister also noted that the armed forces had faced challenges and attempts to undermine their reputation and professional standing at different times.
Referring to changing geopolitical realities and the evolving nature of warfare, Tarique Rahman said the government was working to advance defence technology and develop a modern, self-reliant defence system.
He added that initiatives had been taken to strengthen domestic production of ammunition and defence equipment as part of efforts to enhance the country’s military capabilities.
The prime minister further said implementation of the “One Rank, One Pension” policy was in its final stage, describing it as a longstanding expectation of members of the armed forces.
Reiterating his position on Bangladesh’s foreign relations, he said the country would maintain strong ties with friendly nations without compromising its national dignity or sovereignty.
Earlier, Tarique Rahman received a guard of honour upon arriving at the ceremony. He subsequently presented the National Standard to seven army units recognised for their contributions to national service, important operations, counterterrorism activities and international peacekeeping missions.
The units receiving the honour this year were the 7 Field Regiment Artillery, 32 Field Regiment Artillery, 25 Air Defence Regiment, 9 Engineering Battalion, 56 East Bengal Regiment, 57 East Bengal Regiment and the President Guard Regiment.]
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