Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Friday urged members of the Armed Forces to discharge their duties with utmost professionalism to ensure that the upcoming national election, slated for February next year, is held in a smooth, peaceful and festive environment.

He made the call while addressing a reception marking Armed Forces Day at Senakunja in Dhaka Cantonment in the afternoon, describing the forthcoming polls as an “important chapter” in Bangladesh’s democratic journey.

Prof Yunus said Bangladesh, as a peace-loving nation, believes in respectful cooperation with friendly countries, but the Armed Forces must always remain prepared to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty against any external threat. He said the government has taken initiatives to modernise the army, navy and air force through enhanced training and integration of advanced technology in line with global standards.

Recalling the coordinated operations of the Army, Navy and Air Force on this day in 1971, he said the joint efforts paved the way for the country’s final victory on December 16, and that the forces’ contribution to the Liberation War will remain written “in bold letters” in history.

He noted that beyond defending independence and sovereignty, the Armed Forces have consistently stood by the nation during natural disasters, the 2024 student movement, and ongoing reconstruction and reform programmes.

He expressed confidence that the forces, loyal to democratic and disciplined leadership, will uphold their tradition of sacrifice and patriotism.

Highlighting Bangladesh’s long-standing contribution to UN peacekeeping, Prof Yunus said peacekeepers from Bangladesh have completed 63 missions in 43 countries over the past 37 years and are currently deployed in 10 missions worldwide. Bangladesh, he added, is now among the largest contributors of women peacekeepers and is globally recognised as a reliable partner in peace and security.

He expressed gratitude to diplomats and guests from friendly nations for attending the event and acknowledged their support during Bangladesh’s Liberation War as well as their continued assistance in training the Armed Forces. He reaffirmed Bangladesh’s full support to the UN’s global peace efforts.

Earlier in the morning, the chiefs of the three services paid a courtesy call on the Chief Adviser at the Armed Forces Division. During the meeting, Prof Yunus adorned Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman with the Senabahini Padak (SBP). He also unveiled the Bangladesh Armed Forces Training Compendium on the occasion.

Before the meeting, the Chief Adviser laid a wreath at the Shikha Anirban, paying homage to the Armed Forces members who made the supreme sacrifice during the 1971 Liberation War.