Staff Reporter :
Armed Forces Day in Bangladesh was marked with renewed promises of unity, equality, and global cooperation as Chief Adviser of the interim government, Dr. Muhammad Yunus, delivered an inspiring speech to honor the sacrifices of the nation’s freedom fighters.
Speaking at a grand reception at the Multipurpose Complex in Dhaka Cantonment, he shared his vision for a “new Bangladesh” built on mutual respect, inclusivity, and shared aspirations.
“In this new country, everyone will be like a member of an extended family,” Dr. Yunus proclaimed. “Differences of opinion may arise, but we will not create enmity over them.
We are all equal; no one is better than another.”
This philosophy, he emphasized, would guide the interim government in creating a nation where the people are the true source of power, and equality is the cornerstone of national life.
The event, hosted by the Armed Forces Division, honored gallantry award-winning freedom fighters and their families, reinforcing the legacy of sacrifice and resilience that birthed the nation in 1971.
Dr. Yunus reflected on the decisive role of the armed forces and ordinary citizens in the Liberation War, acknowledging their bravery and paying homage to those who laid down their lives.
“On this day in 1971, the armed forces and the people of Bangladesh united to launch a coordinated attack against the Pakistani occupation forces,” he said.
“Their courage achieved our victory, and today we remember their sacrifices with profound respect.”
Khaleda Zia’s Return to Armed Forces Day The reception was notably highlighted by the attendance of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, who joined the Armed Forces Day celebration after a decade.
Dr. Yunus expressed pride in facilitating her presence, calling it a significant moment. “We are proud to have brought BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia to this event.
Despite her prolonged illness, she chose to join us on this special day.
We deeply appreciate her effort and wish her a speedy recovery.”
Khaleda Zia’s last public appearance was in February 2018, just before her conviction in a corruption case.
Following her release in 2020 under an executive order during the pandemic, she had refrained from attending public events.
Her presence at the Armed Forces Day program after 12 years became the center of attention, sparking widespread discussion.
A Vision for Bangladesh and Global Engagement Dr. Yunus also shared the interim government’s aspirations for a transformative foreign policy.
“We will nurture friendship with all nations based on mutual respect, trust, and cooperation,” he stated, emphasizing the need to address global challenges like climate change, strengthen the global economy, and ensure lasting peace.
Reflecting on the student-led revolution of August 5, 2024, which catalyzed the fall of the Awami League government, he described it as a pivotal moment.
“We have pledged to transform Bangladesh into a nation free of discrimination and oppression, fulfilling the dreams of our freedom fighters, martyrs, and common people.”
As the program concluded, Dr. Yunus called for a united effort to build a prosperous and equitable Bangladesh.
“Let us move forward together, ensuring our youth have the environment to thrive and contribute to nation-building with their creativity and merit,” he urged.
With his message of unity and progress resonating strongly, Armed Forces Day 2024 stood as a beacon of hope and renewed commitment to the values that define Bangladesh’s identity and future aspirations.
Earlier, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus paid glowing tributes to the Armed Forces martyrs, who made supreme sacrifices during the War of Liberation in 1971, on the occasion of the Armed Forces Day.
The chief adviser paid the homage by placing a wreath at the altar of Shikha Anirban (flame eternal) in Dhaka Cantonment here at 8.30 am and stood in solemn silence for a while as a mark of profound respect to the memories of the martyrs.
A smartly turned out contingent of the Army, Navy and Air Force presented a salute at that time while a sad tune was played on the bugle. The chief adviser also signed the visitors’ book kept there.
