The Contribution of the Armed Forces in the Liberation War Will Be Remembered in Bangladesh's History: Chief Adviser

Chief Adviser Prof. Dr. Muhammad Yunus emphasized that the armed forces' contributions during Bangladesh's Liberation War will forever be written in gold in the nation's history. Speaking at a reception event on Armed Forces Day at the Army Kunj on Friday, he highlighted the pivotal role the armed forces played in the war of independence.

He stated, “We are soon heading towards an election, which will mark the beginning of a new journey for Bangladesh. This is our dream.”

Prof. Yunus reflected on the origins of Bangladesh's armed forces, which were born on the battlefield in 1971. He noted that after the brutal attack by the Pakistani military on March 25, 1971, Major Ziaur Rahman, later the President of Bangladesh, declared the country's independence on March 27 from the Kalurghat radio station in Chittagong. He also reminded the audience that on November 21, 1971, the army, navy, and air force joined forces in a significant battle against the Pakistani army. This date, he said, is a milestone in the country's history of the Liberation War.

Prof. Yunus added, "If we had not achieved victory, the death sentence of these brave soldiers would have been inevitable, and life would have been unbearable for their families."

He further stated that the combined efforts of the army, navy, and air force on November 21, 1971, played a crucial role in securing the final victory of the independence struggle on December 16. He described the armed forces' contribution as a golden chapter in Bangladesh's history.

Additionally, Prof. Yunus emphasized that as a peace-loving nation, Bangladesh believes in respectful coexistence with all friendly nations. However, he also stressed the need for the country to remain vigilant and prepared to protect its sovereignty against any foreign aggression. To this end, he assured that modernization and technological advancements in the armed forces—army, navy, and air force—would continue to ensure they are on par with the advanced world.

At the beginning of his speech, the Chief Adviser expressed condolences for the lives lost in the recent earthquake and paid tribute to those who had fallen during the Liberation War and the 24th coup.