US Praise for peacekeeping and humanitarian activities of Bangladesh Army

Staff Reporter: The United States has praised the peacekeeping and humanitarian activities of the Bangladesh Army. Attending the 50th Armed Forces Day celebrations at the Bangabandhu Auditorium of the US Embassy in Washington DC, US Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall lauded the peacekeeping and humanitarian activities of the Bangladesh Army. Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Sheikh Abdul Hannan, who is visiting the United States, was present as the chief guest at the event held at the Bangabandhu Auditorium of the Embassy on Monday (November 22). The United States was represented by Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall. Ambassador of Bangladesh to the USA M Shahidul Islam paid deep tribute to the architect of Bangladesh, Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and recalled the bravery and supreme sacrifice of the valiant freedom fighters - both military and civilians. He highlighted the role Bangladesh Armed Forces has played in the Government’s efforts to fight the Covid-19 pandemic. Ambassador Islam noted with satisfaction the multifaceted cooperation between the armed forces of Bangladesh and the United States – in terms of UN peacekeeping operations, sharing of knowledge and experiences, training, procurement and exchange of visits, etc. Speaking as guest of honor at the 50th Armed Forces Day reception at the Bangabandhu Auditorium of Bangladesh Embassy in Washington, DC, US Air Force Secretary also praised Bangladesh Army’s peacekeeping and humanitarian operations that have earned global acclamation. He also remarked that the US and Bangladesh shared similar views on global norms regarding access to space, exploration, and research. Air Chief Marshal Shaikh Abdul Hannan underscored the friendly and cooperative relationship between the US Armed Forces and Bangladesh Armed Forces that is reflected in their regular engagements in various bilateral and multilateral fora. He expressed hope that his visit would further strengthen the long-lasting ties between the two countries. Defence Attaches from a number of countries, Diplomats, senior officials from the Pentagon, Department of State, and other US organizations, Bangladeshi diaspora and Embassy officials attended the event. Defense Attaché Brigadier General Md Shahedul Islam welcomed the guests at the reception and thanked the USA for the support and cooperation extended that is mutually beneficial for the two countries. BP/SM