Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Monday visited the Bangladesh Army's summer training exercise in Babuganj upazila of Barisal, where he observed field operations and the Army's wartime preparedness.
The prime minister arrived at the exercise site in East Rahmatpur at around 11:30am and toured the forest training area, watching operational drills and simulated battlefield exercises.
He observed troops taking up positions, maneuvering through dense forest terrain, and carrying out combat simulations designed to replicate wartime conditions. Army officers briefed him on various aspects of the exercise and the troops' operational readiness.
Rahman was also briefed on an anti-drone multi-barrel system used to detect and counter hostile drones, with army officers explaining its operating procedures and battlefield applications.
During the visit, the prime minister interacted with soldiers stationed in the forest, inquired about their well-being, and encouraged them to carry out their responsibilities with dedication and professionalism.
He also sat with the soldiers and listened to their experiences regarding training, responsibilities, and field operations.
Later, Rahman shared a meal prepared in a simulated battlefield environment for participating troops. The meal consisted of plain rice, lentils, mashed potato, prawn, and egg curry cooked over a fire lit inside a container.
Addressing the personnel, the prime minister said: "The people have deep confidence in the Bangladesh Army, which is a symbol of the country's independence and sovereignty. The Army has repeatedly set bright examples of professionalism, courage and patriotism in dealing with national crises, ensuring the country's security and maintaining law and order."
He added: "The discipline, skills, sacrifice and sense of duty of army personnel have earned the Bangladesh Army special respect among the people of the country."
Rahman stressed the importance of professional training, the use of modern technology, and maintaining the highest level of operational readiness to preserve that confidence and respect.
"I grew up in an army family. That is why I enjoy coming to army personnel, and it reminds me of my childhood. Talking to army personnel and spending time with them makes me feel as though I have returned to my childhood," he said.
Expressing hope that the Bangladesh Army would earn greater professional recognition internationally, the prime minister said the government would provide all necessary support to further strengthen the force's capability, modernization, and reputation.
Among those present were Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon, Defense Adviser Brigadier General (Retd) Dr AKM Shamsul Islam, Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman, Prime Minister's Military Secretary Major General Abul Hasnat Mohammad Tariq, and other senior Bangladesh Army officials.