We want peace, not war: PM

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday said her government has been taking Bangladesh forward, maintaining friendly relations with all.

"We want peace, not war. The Father of the Nation said 'friendship to all and malice towards none.' We have been following that [the main principle of Bangladesh's foreign policy] and taking the country forward on a development trajectory," she said.

The premier was addressing the President Parade-2022 of the 83rd BMA long course at Bangladesh Military Academy (BMA) in Bhatiari.

The PM asked the fresh cadets to carry out their duty towards the country.

"Today you are going to be proud officers of the Bangladesh Army after the completion of a long training. I believe you will properly perform the sacred responsibility, which has been bestowed on you through oath to protect the motherland, and the independence and sovereignty of the country," she said.

Hasina thanked all members of the armed forces for playing an effective role in every disaster and tough time.

Earlier, on her arrival at the BMA Parade Ground, the PM was received by the Chief of Army Staff, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of Army Training and Doctrine Command (ARTDOC), the Chattogram area commander of Bangladesh Army and also GOC of 24th Infantry Division and the BMA Commandant.

The PM took salute and reviewed an impressive march-past as the chief guest at the parade ground.

She along with Chief of Army Staff General SM Shafiuddin Ahmed and BMA Commandant Major General SM Kamrul Hassan inspected the parade.

Battalion Senior Under Officer of the 83rd BMA Long Course Labib Johair Noor Anan received the coveted "Sword of Honour" as the best all-around cadet, while Company Senior Under Officer SM Jahirul Islam Niloy the "Army Chief Gold Medal" for the best performance in military subjects.