We are ready and firmly committed to defend sovereignty: PM

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said Bangladesh is always ready and firmly committed to defend the country’s sovereignty from attack by any external forces.

The Prime Minister made the remark after opening Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Battery Complex by unveiling its inaugural plaque on Sunday (April 21) morning at the Artillery Centre and School at Halishahar in Chattogram.

“The main driving force of our foreign policy is “Friendship to all, malice to none". Our target is to ensure economic development with maintaining good relationships with all the neighbouring countries,” she said.

“But, we are always ready and committed to protect the country’s sovereignty from any external attack,” she continued.

The Premier hoped army personnel will work with patriotism, professionalism and sincerity for the welfare of the country and its people being inspired with the spirit of the Liberation War.

“We will be able to build a happy, prosperous “Sonar Bangladesh” free from hunger and prosperity with collective efforts from all as dreamt of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman,” she said.

The Premier said that the Awami League government has been working to achieve the sustainable development target by 2030 and build a developed, prosperous and Smart Bangladesh by 2041.

“That’s why, every member of the Bangladesh Army would have to be smart having knowledge of information technology,” she added.

The Prime Minister asked the army personnel to work for maintaining the country’s glory with dutifulness, professional efficiency and patriotism having confidence and loyalty to the leadership.

She briefly described the measures taken by her government for the overall development of the Army.

As part of the modernization of the Army, she said Ultra-modern aircrafts, helicopters, UAV, fourth generation tank, APC, missile to destroy tanks and other war weapons have been added to the Bangladesh Army.

Highly praising the overall activities of the Army for the country’s welfare, the Premier said: “Bangladesh Army has been well established as the symbol of confidence of the people.”

She went on saying that the Bangladesh military has been highly praised at home and abroad for its work efficiency and professionalism in the peacekeeping missions of the United Nations (UN).

Modern light armoured vehicles and mine resistant ambush protected vehicles have been purchased for the Army to enhance operational capabilities and ensure their security in the UN missions.