Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami’s Secretary General and former Member of Parliament, Mia Golam Porwar, issued a statement today, 21 November extending greetings to the members of the army, navy and air force on the occasion of Armed Forces Day,

In the given statement, he said, “21 November is Armed Forces Day. It is a glorious day in the history of the nation. We remember the valiant martyrs of the armed forces with deep respect who sacrificed their lives in our great War of Independence, and we extend heartfelt greetings and congratulations to the members of the armed forces.”

He further said, “On this day in ’71, during the great Liberation War, the fearless members of our army, navy and air force launched a counteroffensive by jointly attacking the Pakistani invading forces. Members of the country’s freedom fighters, various paramilitary forces, and patriotic people also took part in this combined attack. By defeating the invading Pakistani forces, we achieved final victory on 16 December. Following this legacy, every year on 21 November, Armed Forces Day is observed as a symbol of our advancement and victory in the great Liberation War.”

The sacrifices and responsible role of the armed forces in protecting the country’s independence, sovereignty, security and peace have remained gloriously memorable in the nation’s history. I hope this role will continue in the future as well. Alongside, by participating in United Nations peacekeeping missions, the Bangladesh Armed Forces continue to glorify the country’s image on the international stage.”

He further said, “The role of the armed forces in safeguarding our independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity is beyond question. At the same time, by providing strong assistance to the civil administration in tackling tidal surges, floods, cyclones and various natural disasters and calamities, as well as in improving the law-and-order situation, they have become a symbol of the nation’s trust. I hope the armed forces will continue working together with the patriotic people under all circumstances to protect the country’s independence and sovereignty.”

He said, “I believe that only a strong-armed force built on the foundation of justice, truth and humanity can offer the nation a safe and stable future. I pray to Almighty Allah that He keeps our beloved motherland Bangladesh safe and grants the armed forces more strength, wisdom and success in the service of the country and its people.”