PM: People Have Full Confidence in Bangladesh Army

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Monday said the Bangladesh Army enjoys the full confidence of the people, describing it as a symbol of the country's independence and sovereignty.

"The Army has consistently demonstrated professionalism, courage and patriotism in responding to national crises, safeguarding the country's security and maintaining law and order," he said.

The prime minister made the remarks while visiting the Bangladesh Army's Summer Exercise in the Purba Rahmatpur area of Babuganj upazila in Barishal at around 11:30am.

During the visit, Tarique Rahman met with Army personnel deployed in the exercise. He spoke with soldiers stationed inside the jungle, inquired about their well-being and encouraged them to continue performing their duties with dedication and professionalism.

He said the Army's discipline, efficiency, sacrifice and unwavering sense of duty have earned it a place of special respect in the hearts of the people.

"To preserve this trust and respect, the highest standards of professional training, technological advancement and operational preparedness must be maintained," he added.

Recalling his personal connection with the military, Tarique Rahman said, "I grew up in an Army family. That is why I always feel happy whenever I am among Army personnel. It brings back memories of my childhood."

The prime minister appeared nostalgic as he spent time interacting with soldiers during the visit.

Expressing optimism about the Army's future, he said he hoped the Bangladesh Army would continue to strengthen its reputation, dignity and professional standing on the global stage.

"The government will provide all necessary support to enhance the Army's capability, modernisation and international reputation," he said.

Later, the prime minister walked through the dense jungle to observe various field training activities and wartime preparedness exercises.

He watched the positioning, movement and combat drills of troops operating in rugged terrain while Army officers briefed him on different aspects of the exercise and the strategic readiness of the forces.

Tarique Rahman also observed the operation of an anti-drone multi-barrel system designed to detect and neutralise hostile drones. Army officials explained the system's operational procedures and its battlefield applications.

At one point, the prime minister sat on the ground with the soldiers, listened to their experiences of training and field responsibilities, and shared a meal prepared under simulated battlefield conditions.

The meal 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, Prime Minister's Defence Adviser Brig Gen (retd) AKM Shamsul Islam, Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman, Prime Minister's Military Secretary Maj Gen Abul Hasnat Mohammad Tariq and senior Bangladesh Army officials were present.