Remain alert to threats

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday directed the Bangladesh Army personnel to stay ready to face any external and internal threat to the country's constitution and sovereignty.

“You'll have to keep a constant vigil to… safeguard the country's constitution and sovereignty,” she said.

The premier was addressing a parade of the sixth reunion of the Corps of Engineers of Bangladesh Army at the Engineer Centre and School of Military Engineering (ECSME) at Qadirabad Cantonment in Natore.

Hasina said the army will have to play an important role in building a developed and prosperous country.

She also emphasised maintaining peace and discipline. “You must remain alert so that the country's law and order is maintained.”

Praising the army, she said their role in the UN peacekeeping missions has brightened the country's image. They have set a unique example in facing natural disasters as well as providing the affected people with assistance.

She also appreciated the army's role in rendering services to the forcibly displaced Rohingyas.

Hasina described the engineer corps as an important and traditional organisation of the army.

To further strengthen the corps, she said the government has already constituted Engineer Construction Brigade and Engineer Battalion. Besides, the formation of RE Battalion, Engineer Construction Battalion and DIV Engineer Battalion is under process.

She expressed her optimism that experiences, guidelines and advices of the seniors at the reunion will inspire the army personnel to work with honesty, patriotism and dedication.

At the event, the prime minister was given a guard of honour by a smartly turned out army contingent.

Earlier on her arrival, she was received by Chief of Army Staff General Abu Belal Muhammad Shafiul Huq and the colonel commandant and the commandant of the ECSME.

Later, she attended the annual commanders' conference of the engineer corps.