DHAKA: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said the nation is proud of its armed forces for their contribution in earning victory over the occupation forces with light weapons during the war of independence in 1971.

She came to this statement while delivering her speech at the graduation ceremony of National Defence Course and AFW course 2014 at Mirpur cantonment on Thursday.

As the strategic geographic location of Bangladesh made it an important actor in the global politics, the country is playing a major role in promoting regional integration, the premier said.

“The main theme of our foreign policy is: Friendship to all, malice to none,” the premier added.

She further said that for a three-dimensional Navy, procurement of Submarine is underway. Besides, helicopter, marine petrol aricraft, modern frigate and vessels were procured to meet the newer challenges.

“Our patriotic armed forces always were with the people to meet their hopes and aspirations. I hope, you will do the same in future,” the PM added.

According to her, the incumbent government has been working to establish professional and well-trained armed forces. We have allocated increased money for the armed forces in the national budgets.

To the foreign graduates, the PM said, “I hope you are satisfied with the traditional Bangladeshi hospitality.”

She also expressed her hope that the foreign graduates will act as valuable ambassadors at their respective positions.

The PM hopes that this partnership between the people and the Armed Forces will gather more strength with the passage of time.

BDST: 1325 HRS, DEC 18, 2014