Marking Armed Forces Day, BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman issued a statement on Tuesday with a formal message of greetings and commendation to the members of the nation’s army, navy, and air force.
In his message, the BNP acting chairman extended “heartfelt greetings and congratulations” to all service members and wished for the “happiness, peace, and well-being” of their families.
He expressed his hopes for the “overall success, improvement, and progress” of the armed forces and paid tribute to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives during the Liberation War of 1971.
Armed Forces Day commemorates the formal formation of the Bangladesh military on 21 November 21, 1971, during the Liberation War. It is observed annually as a tribute to the forces’ role in the nation’s struggle for victory.
Tarique praised the armed forces as a “proud institution of the nation, built on fearless courage, valour, and resolute discipline,” highlighting their continued role as “vigilant guardians in protecting our independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.”
He also noted their contributions to global peacekeeping efforts, which he said have “strengthened and made international relations commendable.”
He also mentioned his parents, adding, “Former president, former army chief, Shaheed Ziaur Rahman, had taken and implemented extensive programs with the aim of building the Bangladesh Armed Forces into a technology-dependent, dynamic, and efficient force, keeping pace with the modern world. It was he who transformed the Bangladesh Armed Forces into a well-educated and professional force. Similarly, when Begum Khaleda Zia was the prime minister, she further developed the armed forces into a more modern force, which has made significant contributions on a global scale. Our efforts will continue in the future as well.”
The BNP leader concluded by paying deep respect to the seven Bir Sreshthos, the nation’s highest-ranked war heroes, who made the ultimate sacrifice in 1971, and wished for the success of all events held to mark the day.
