Tarique Rahman observes military drills, interacts with soldiers and joins troops for a meal during field inspection
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman made a surprise visit to the Bangladesh Army’s summer exercise in Singair upazila of Manikganj this morning, where he observed military drills, interacted with soldiers and shared a meal with troops participating in the training.According to a press release from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), Tarique arrived at the summer training area of 8 Bir under the Bangladesh Army’s 9 Infantry Division at around 9:20am and walked through a large section of the training ground.
He inspected different parts of the “firm base”, where the general officer commanding of the division and the unit’s commanding officer briefed him on the ongoing training activities and tactical preparations.The prime minister later received an operational briefing before witnessing a raid exercise conducted by army personnel. He also observed various aspects of the field training, including battlefield positioning, tactical manoeuvres and the use of weapons.
During the visit, Tarique entered an army bunker and exchanged views with officers and soldiers on operational tactics. The PMO said the soldiers participating in the exercise expressed enthusiasm as the prime minister spent considerable time with them in the field.
He also ate freshly cooked food prepared for the participating soldiers and had tea with them.Addressing the troops afterwards, Tarique said the people of Bangladesh have deep trust in the Bangladesh Army. Praising the force’s role during national crises and in maintaining law and order, he stressed the importance of professional training, discipline and maintaining the highest level of operational preparedness. He also wished the army continued success.Prime Minister’s Defence Adviser Brig Gen (retd) AKM Shamsul Islam, Chief of Army Staff Gen Waker-Uz-Zaman, Military Secretary Maj Gen Abul Hasnat Mohammad Tariq, and other senior army officials accompanied him during the visit.
The PMO said it was the first time in the country’s history that a prime minister had visited an army summer training area and spent an extended period with soldiers in the field.
