Development of armed forces to continue: PM
UNB, Chittagong
Prime Minister Khaleda Zia yesterday praised humanitarian services of the armed forces, apart from their main professional duties, and assured continued government efforts for their development.The prime minister, also in charge of the Ministry of Defence, was addressing the President's Parade marking the commissioning of the gentlemen and gentlewomen cadets of the 49th BMA long course and the 20th BMA special course at the Bangladesh Military Academy ground at Bhatiari in the morning. A total of 170 cadets, including 21 women, of the 49th BMA long course were commissioned. Three cadets of the 20th BMA special course were also commissioned on the occasion. Khaleda recalled the contribution of the members of the armed forces who sacrificed their lives and were injured in the War of Independence. She appreciated the role of the armed forces in the development of the country, helping the civil administration maintain law and order and in the distribution of relief during disasters. Addressing the women officers, she said their success in the service will inspire others to join the forces. The prime minister, on board an open jeep, reviewed a parade and took salute at the impressive march past. She also distributed trophies and awards to the outstanding cadets. Battalion Senior Under Officer MD Rezaul Islam was adjudged best all-round cadet and awarded the 'Sword of Honour'. Islam also received 'Osmani Gold Medal' for his feat in academic subjects. Company Senior Under Officer Md Moshiul Alam received the 'Chief of Army Staff Gold Medal' for his best performance in military subjects. Rauf Company received the BMA colour for the winter term. During her visit, the prime minister also inaugurated the newly constructed Zia Auditorium at the BMA. Work on the 1266-seat auditorium began in 1993. She also laid the foundation stone of a new officers' mess of the BMA Earlier, on arrival at the parade ground, the prime minister was received by Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Hasan Mashhud Chowdhury, Local Area Commander Major General Moeen U Ahmed and BMA Commandant Brigadier General Abu Belal Muhammad Shafiul Haq. Ministers, MPs, members of the diplomatic corps, senior civil and military officials and guardians of the passing-out cadets witnessed the parade.
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