Be a true friend of coastal people, PM tells coast guard

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today called upon Bangladesh Coast Guard to be a "true friend" of the coastal people.

"The motto of the force is 'Guardian at Sea', which means to establish yourself as true friend of the coastal people," she said while addressing the 28th founding anniversary function of the coast guard and the BCG Day-2023 at its headquarters in the capital's Sher-e-Bangla Nagar.

The PM praised the coast guard personnel for standing beside the innocent and helpless people in the coastal belts by warding off many criminal acts.

She said her government has been working to transform the coast guard into a modern and up-to-date force that is well-versed in information technology.

"We want our coast guard to be built as a developed and powerful force with knowledge of modern information technology," she said.

The prime minister said her government has launched Bangabandhu Satellite-1 into orbit, adding that a ground-breaking change has been made in the coast guard's communication system by establishing its connection with the satellite.The prime minister also unveiled a newly constructed establishment of the force at Lakshmipur.

Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan and BCG Director General (DG) Rear Admiral Ashraful Hoq Chowdhury were present at the function.

At the ceremony, the prime minister handed over Bangladesh Coast Guard medals to several members including its director general in recognition of their glorious contribution to the force as well.

At the start of the programme, a smartly turned out contingent of the Bangladesh Coast Guard also gave a state-salute to the premier.

A short video documentary on Coast Guard's activities was screened.