Mentioning Bangladesh Army as a symbol of pride for the nation, President Abdul Hamid said that the force is much more developed, skilled and smarter now with modern training and equipment.

President Hamid made the remarks while attending the President Parade 2018 of 76th BMA Long Course organised by Bangladesh Military Academy at Bhatiari here on Saturday, reports the UNB.

‘Today’s Bangladesh army is completely a different force from what it was a decade ago considering its infrastructural, strategic and technological aspects.  The force is more developed, efficient and smarter with the modern training and equipment,’ he said.

 ‘In the past nearly 10 years, along with the infrastructural changes, the capability of army has increased to a great extent. As part of the Forces Goal-2030, necessary weapons and equipment has been collected for its modernization alongside building a strong resistance system.’

He also hoped the force will make their presence stronger in the world in combination of their professional skills, talent and technology. 

Praising the force for their role in setting up a great example in serving the country alongside the protection of the sovereignty and independence, the President said, ‘The army has played an important role in establishing shelter centres for the displaced Rohingyas of Myanmar, distributing relief and creating their identity cards. They have earned acclaim from all through showing efficiency and professionalism’.

‘You have been entrusted with scared responsibility of protecting the country’s independence and sovereignty with today’s oath. You must always remain alert and ready to perform this duty. This will be the main motto of your professional life’, the President added.

He also urged the force members to share the happiness and sorrow s of the common people. ‘You will have to stand beside people during any disaster and distress’, he added.

Army chief Abdul Aziz received the president earlier.

A total of 257 officers cadet formally passed out including 217 and 37 female while two from Saudi Arabia and one from Srilanka also participated in the parade.

President Abdul Hamid reviewed the smartly turned out contingent and took salute of the colourful parade as the chif guest. He also distributed crests among the award winning cadets for their outstanding performance.

Battalion Senior Under officer A.K.M Injamamul was awarded with the most prestigious ‘ Sword of Honour’, for all round performance while Company Senior Officer Ibne eEzaz Hasan received the ‘Chief of Army Staff (  CAS) Gold Medal’ for the performance in military subjects.

The Cadets formally took oath and were adorned with the badges of rank by the chief guest Abdul Hamid.

Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Nizamuddin Ahmed, chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Masihuzzaman Serniabat, Members of Parliament, diplomats and secretaries concerned of Bangabhaban participated at the programme.