'Armed forces are being developed to protect the country'

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said that the armed forces are being made capable of defending against any attack by external forces to protect the country's independence and sovereignty. He said, "We don't want war with anyone. We believe in Bangabandhu's principle of 'friendship with all and enmity with none'. But measures are being taken to enable the armed forces to defend against any attack by any external force.”

He said these things while addressing the chief guest at the East Bengal Regiment (EBR) 10th Tigers Reunion in Chittagong on Thursday.

"The government wants to establish Bangladesh as a peaceful country, for which it has adopted a policy of 'zero tolerance' against terrorism and militancy," said the Prime Minister. He expressed his sincere gratitude to the personnel of the armed forces and said, 'The members of the armed forces not only stand by the side of Bangladeshis, but also help friendly countries in any disaster.'

"Bangladesh Armed Forces personnel are working efficiently in rescue operations in Turkey and Syria as both countries have recently experienced the worst earthquakes," added the Prime Minister.

Sheikh Hasina thanked the armed forces for working with pride in the UN peacekeeping mission and brightening the image of the country.

About attending the EBR 10th Tigers Reunion, he said, 'EBR is very close to his heart as his two younger brothers and freedom fighters Captain Sheikh Kamal and Lieutenant Sheikh Jamal, both of whom were martyred in the August 15 massacre, were members. So, participating in the EBR reunion is on the one hand painful for me, on the other hand it is a joy.'

On the occasion, the Prime Minister received the National Salute by a smart army contingent. He also observed the parade in an open jeep along with Chief of Army Staff General SM Shafiuddin Ahmed. Later, the Prime Minister witnessed a colorful cultural program.