Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has said the people have full confidence in the Bangladesh Army, describing it as a symbol of the country's independence and sovereignty.
Speaking during a visit to the Bangladesh Army's Summer Exercise in the Purba Rahmatpur area of Babuganj Upazila on Monday, he said the force had repeatedly demonstrated professionalism, courage and patriotism in responding to national crises, safeguarding the country's security and maintaining law and order.
"The Army has repeatedly set shining examples of professionalism, courage and patriotism in dealing with national crises, ensuring the country's security and maintaining law and order," he said.
During the visit, which began at around 11:30am, the prime minister met soldiers taking part in the exercise. He visited troops deployed inside the jungle, asked about their well-being and encouraged them to carry out their duties with dedication and professionalism.
He said the discipline, efficiency, sacrifice and sense of duty shown by Army personnel had earned the force a place of special esteem among the public.
"To preserve this trust and respect, professional training, the use of modern technology and the highest level of preparedness must be maintained," he said.
Reflecting on his personal connection with the military, Tarique Rahman said, "I grew up in an Army family. That is why I feel very happy whenever I come among Army personnel. It reminds me of my childhood memories."
He expressed hope that the Bangladesh Army would gain greater professional recognition and prestige internationally, adding that the government would continue to support the force's capability, modernisation and reputation.
"The government will provide all necessary support to enhance the capability, modernisation and reputation of the Army," he said.
The prime minister later walked through the jungle to observe training activities and wartime preparedness exercises. He watched troop positioning, movement and combat drills in dense terrain while Army officers briefed him on the exercise and the strategic readiness of the participating forces.
He also observed the operation of an anti-drone multi-barrel system designed to detect and counter hostile drones. Army officers explained the system's operational procedures and its battlefield role.
Later, Tarique Rahman sat with soldiers, listened to their experiences of training and field duties, and shared a meal prepared under simulated battlefield conditions. The menu included plain rice, lentils, mashed potatoes, shrimp and egg curry, cooked over a fire lit with candles inside a tin container.
Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon, Defence Adviser Brigadier General (Retd) Dr AKM Shamsul Islam, Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman, Military Secretary Major General Abul Hasnat Mohammad Tariq and senior Bangladesh Army officials were also present.
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