Uphold country’s dignity at the global stage

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday asked the army personnel to prepare themselves in such a way so that they can uphold the country's dignity in the global arena.

"Our army personnel have to work at home and abroad. So, you have to be efficient in every aspect. You should always remain careful to uphold the country's dignity wherever in the world you will go," she said.

The premier was addressing a programme virtually from the Gono Bhaban marking the President Parade-2020 of the cadets of the 79th BMA Long Course.

Bangladesh Army organised the ceremony at the parade ground of the Bangladesh Military Academy in Bhatiary, Chattogram.

Mentioning that Bangladesh achieved victory through the Liberation War under the leadership of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Hasina said, "You [army personnel] have to prepare yourselves in such a way that you can move around the world holding your head high and upholding the country's dignity."

She greeted the fresh cadets for being commissioned as officers of Bangladesh Army upon completion of the training course.

The PM gave directives to the army personnel, particularly the freshers, to work for the welfare of the country's people. "We want you to always stand beside the people and contribute to improving their livelihoods."

Describing the day of passing out parade as an important day for the cadets, Hasina said, "You are going to join Bangladesh Army today as commissioned officers. So, you should always keep in mind that you have to love the country and perform duties for the country. You have shouldered huge responsibilities of safeguarding the country's independence and sovereignty through taking the oaths."

Bangabandhu had said the most important things in life are honesty, dutifulness, commitment and zeal to love the country, she said. "You have to discharge your duties keeping the advice in mind."

Briefly highlighting the measures taken by her government for the overall development of Bangladesh Army, the PM said the government has formulated "Forces Goals 2030" in light of the "Defence Policy" adopted by the Father of the Nation in 1974.

Hasina said after assuming office, her government established new military units, including new infantry divisions, brigade units and training institutes, for overall development of the army.

She said her government has created a scope for women to join the army. Bangladesh Army, including its female officers, has been working in UN peacekeeping missions with reputations, the PM added.

The premier appreciated the army personnel for standing by the people during the Covid-19 pandemic putting their lives at risk. She prayed for the salvation of the souls of the army men who died of the virus and conveyed deep sympathy to their bereaved families.

Describing herself as a family member of Bangladesh Army, Hasina said her younger brothers Sheikh Kamal and Sheikh Jamal were members of the force while her youngest brother Sheikh Russell also wanted to be an army officer.

Wishing every success of the cadets, she asked them to love the country and its people and perform their duties accordingly so that the country can move towards prosperity.

On behalf of the PM, Chief of Army Staff Gen Aziz Ahmed distributed various prizes among the winners. The army chief also thanked the premier for joining the programme.

Battalion senior under officer of the 79th BMA Long Course, Md Mahmudul Hasan, was awarded with the "Sword of Honour" as the best all round cadet and "Army Chief Gold Medal" for his best performance in the military subjects.

The cadets also took formal oaths on the occasion. Bangladesh Army arranged a spectacular parade marking the occasion.