(BSS) - Praising the armed forces for their contributions to safeguarding national security, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today directed them to protect sovereignty of the country and uphold dignity of the constitution, rising above party-affiliation and opinions.

He also called upon the members of the armed forces to maintain public trust, and stay committed to serving the nation with integrity, dedication, and sacrifice.

Tarique Rahman, also ruling BNP chairman, made the call while addressing a Darbar for the military officials at the Dhaka Cantonment Auditorium here, said Prime Minister`s Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Ruman.

Earlier, on his arrival at the venue, the premier was received by his Defence Adviser Brigadier General (Retd) Dr AKM Shamsul Islam, Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral M Nazmul Hassan, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan and the Principal Staff Officer of the Armed Forces Division.

"The armed forces are not the property of any particular individual, family or party. The armed forces are a symbol of the strength and dignity of an independent state," the premier said, adding, commitment to the constitution and the unwavering trust of the people must be the core base of the armed forces to walk the path.

"Protecting the independence and sovereignty of the country is the sole and sacred responsibility of each of our members," he added.

In the past, the Prime Minister said, there had been attempts to weaken the army and make it controversial through various incidents and activities.

Referring to the Pilkhana massacre, he said the army was damaged through that incident and in subsequent times, there were attempts to make the force controversial for various activities.

Highlighting the contribution of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman to modernizing the army, Tarique Rahman said that it is important to nurture the patriotism and strong spirit that had developed in the army since that time.

"If there are united armed forces, no one can defeat Bangladesh," he added.

Terming the Bangladesh Army`s participation in the UN peacekeeping mission as a major achievement, the premier said this achievement reached a higher level internationally during the BNP government.

He said that the armed forces are not only an indispensable force in times of war, but also play a role as vigilant guards to protect the country`s independence and sovereignty and an important role in dealing with any natural disaster.

The role of Bangladesh Armed Forces is globally recognized in establishing peace in war-torn countries by being members of UN peacekeeping missions outside the country`s borders, the Prime Minister said.

"We want an armed force that will be respected by external powers and trusted by the country`s people," he said, adding, the armed forces must always maintain a high ideological position without compromising professionalism.

Addressing the Darbar, the Prime Minister highly praised the professionalism, discipline, and contributions of the armed forces in safeguarding national security and enhancing Bangladesh`s image in the international arena.

He particularly commended their role in maintaining the overall law and order in the country since August 2024 and in ensuring the smooth and successful completion of the 13th national parliamentary election.

Tarique Rahman assured full government support to enhance the future capabilities, modernization and effective participation of the armed forces in national development.

Senior military and civil officials stationed in Dhaka, along with members of different ranks, attended the Darbar. Members stationed in other parts of the country joined the event through video teleconference.