Prime Minister Visits Bangladesh Army's Summer Training Exercise

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Tuesday visited the Bangladesh Army's summer training exercise in Manikganj, becoming the first prime minister in the country's history to personally attend a summer field training programme.

Rahman arrived at the training area of the 8 BIR under the 9th Infantry Division in Singair Upazila at around 9:20am, making a surprise visit and touring the extensive exercise grounds on foot.

During the visit, he inspected different sections of the Forward Administrative and Maintenance Base (FARM Base) and received briefings from the General Officer Commanding (GOC) and the unit's Commanding Officer (CO) on the progress of the exercise and the army's operational preparedness.

The Prime Minister also listened to a commander's verbal operational order and observed a live raid demonstration carried out by army personnel.

He reviewed battlefield positions, tactical manoeuvres, the deployment of military equipment and other elements of the realistic combat exercise.

Rahman later entered an army bunker, where he interacted with officers and soldiers participating in the training and discussed battlefield tactics. He also met troops stationed in concealed positions under tree cover, enquired about their well-being and encouraged them to continue performing their duties with dedication.

During the visit, the Prime Minister shared a meal prepared for the participating soldiers and later joined them for tea.

Addressing the troops, Rahman said the people of Bangladesh have deep confidence in the Bangladesh Army. He commended the force for its distinguished contributions during national emergencies and in maintaining law and order, while underscoring the need to uphold high standards of professional training, discipline and operational readiness.

He also conveyed his best wishes for the continued progress and success of the Bangladesh Army.

Accompanying the Prime Minister were Defence Adviser Brig Gen (Retd) Dr A K M Shamsul Islam, Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman, Military Secretary Major General Abul Hasnat Mohammad Tariq, and other senior Bangladesh Army officers.