Govt committed to building armed forces into a modern four-dimensional force: President

President Mohammed Shahabuddin has reaffirmed the government's commitment to transforming the country's Armed Forces into a modern four-dimensional force, saying the initiative is aimed at strengthening the country's defence capability and addressing emerging security challenges.

Speaking as the chief guest at the 51st founding anniversary of the President's Guard Regiment (PGR) at Dhaka Cantonment on Sunday (July 5), the president said the government has adopted a "Bangladesh First" policy in formulating national defence planning, enhancing deterrence capabilities and shaping the country's overall security strategy.

He said the ongoing initiatives would significantly improve the operational capability, professionalism and preparedness of the Armed Forces, making Bangladesh's defence system more modern, efficient and resilient.

Describing the PGR as a highly specialised, disciplined and professional unit of the Bangladesh Army, Shahabuddin said the regiment plays a vital role in ensuring the security of the President, the prime minister, visiting foreign dignitaries and other important state personalities, while also upholding the country's prestige at official ceremonies.

The president further urged PGR personnel to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline and technology-driven operational capability to meet evolving security demands.

He noted that the global security landscape is changing rapidly, with cyberattacks, the misuse of artificial intelligence and hybrid threats emerging alongside conventional security risks. He stressed the need to strengthen technology-based capabilities, intelligence analysis and round-the-clock operational readiness to effectively counter such challenges.

Expressing confidence in the regiment's future, Shahabuddin said continued investment in advanced technology, international-standard training and professional excellence would further enhance the PGR's operational effectiveness.

He also highlighted the importance of close coordination among law enforcement agencies, intelligence organisations and relevant ministries to ensure comprehensive security for state leaders and visiting dignitaries, noting that such protection is closely linked to national security and state dignity.

At the same time, he called on PGR members to remain sensitive in carrying out their duties so that security arrangements do not hinder the normal interaction between state leaders and the public.

Paying tribute to the martyrs of the Liberation War, freedom fighters and Biranganas, the President also recalled the contributions of martyred President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia.

He said that five members of the PGR were martyred during the assassination of President Ziaur Rahman at Chattogram Circuit House on May 30, 1981, and paid homage to them as well as all members of the regiment who lost their lives in the line of duty.

The president also prayed for the souls of those killed during the July-August mass uprising and expressed sympathy for those who were injured.

Earlier, Shahabuddin cut a ceremonial cake to mark the regiment's 51st anniversary and wished continued success, prosperity and welfare for the PGR.

The programme was attended by Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan, the acting Chief of Naval Staff, secretaries to Bangabhaban, senior military and civilian officials, the PGR commander and members of the regiment.