Return to cantonment was emotional, says PM Tarique as he greets armed forces

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman shared Eid-ul-Adha greetings with members of the Bangladesh Army at Dhaka Cantonment today (28 May).

The prime minister joined officers, junior commissioned officers and soldiers at an Eid reunion luncheon held at the cantonment in the afternoon.

On his arrival at the venue, he was received by Quarter Master General of the Bangladesh Army Lieutenant General Lieutenant General Mohammad Shaheenul Haque.

Addressing the soldiers briefly, the prime minister said he felt emotional and delighted to return to the familiar and memory-filled environment of the cantonment after many years.

He said the discipline, camaraderie and sincerity of army personnel had always remained special and memorable to him.

Tarique praised the professionalism and sense of duty displayed by the army, particularly during national emergencies and disaster response efforts.

He said the armed forces had long stood as a symbol of trust in protecting the country’s independence, sovereignty and public security.

The prime minister also said the contribution of the army to national crises and the country’s development journey would be remembered by the nation.

Expressing hope for the future, he said every member of the Bangladesh Army would continue serving the country with the same dedication, professionalism and patriotism.

After the luncheon, the prime minister visited the soldiers’ barracks and planted a sapling on the unit premises. He also signed the visitors’ book.

Later, he joined officers, JCOs and soldiers in a photo session before offering Zuhr prayers with army personnel.

Officials said the prime minister’s participation in the Eid programme inspired and encouraged members of the armed forces.

They said the presence of the country’s top leadership on Eid day boosted the morale of soldiers and strengthened their commitment to professional responsibility and national service.

Defence Adviser Brigadier General (retd) AKM Shamsul Islam, Principal Staff Officer of the Armed Forces Division Lieutenant General Mir Mushfiqur Rahman, Commander of the 46 Independent Infantry Brigade Brigadier General Syed Ashiqur Rahman, and Commanding Officer of 25 East Bengal Regiment Lieutenant Colonel Md Shafiqul Islam were also present.