Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday asked the members of Bangladesh Army to remain vigil to protect the country's constitution and sovereignty defying internal and external threats.
“You'll have to remain ready to face internal or external threats for protecting the sacred constitution and sovereignty of the motherland,” she said.
The premier gave the directives while addressing the inaugural function of the newly-constructed cantonment, “Sheikh Hasina Cantonment”, in Patuakhali.
She opened the country's 31st cantonment on the bank of the Payra river at Lebukhali in Dumki upazila of the southwestern coastal district in the morning by unveiling its plaque.
The new cantonment has been constructed on around 1,400 acres of land.
“The army will have to keep up the trend of democracy and constitution and make greater contributions to public welfare-oriented activities,” she said.
Expressing satisfaction over the establishment of an environment-friendly and modern cantonment at Lebukhali, she expressed firm optimism that members of the newly formed division, brigade and unit will work together for the country's welfare.
She hoped that the 7th Infantry Division will become an exemplary division.
Hasina said the government has taken various steps to develop the armed forces as a modern one. “That's why the government took a decision in 2016 to establish the division.”
She said the armed forces members have achieved a worldwide acceptance for their efficiency, competence and public service-oriented activities.
They also have set a unique example recently through extending helping hands and supports towards victims of natural calamities, she added.
Hasina said Bangladesh is now a “brand name” in peacekeeping missions of the United Nations, and it is a matter of pride for the country.
She appreciated the army's role in rendering services to the forcibly displaced Rohingyas.
She said the armed forces have shown efficiency in building roads and infrastructures even in remote hill areas. To modernise the force, she said, sophisticated vehicles, helicopters and arms and ammunition have been inducted into it.
The prime minister also inaugurated 14 development projects.
Ministers, parliament members, chiefs of the three services, diplomats, former chiefs of the army and senior government officials were present on the occasion.
