PM Urged For Army Promotion Based An Efficiency, Merit

Importance should be given on officers' leadership quality, seniority, faith in the spirit of the war of liberation, honesty, discipline, attitude and ability to work in different fields, she said.

The Prime Minister, who is also in-charge of the defense ministry, gave the directives while inaugurating the Army Headquarters (AHQ) Selection Board-2014 at AHQ in Dhaka Cantonment here today.

Sheikh Hasina urged the members of the selection board to keep them above the personal choice and select the competent officers for promotion.

She said, armed forces should always remain careful to face any threat to country's holy constitution and democratic process.

Army Chief General Iqbal Karim Bhuiyan gave introductory speech in the meeting.

PM's Security Affairs Advisor Major General Tarique Ahamed Siddiqui (retd), Principal Secretary Abdus Sobhan Sikder and senior officials of the army were present.

In her speech the Prime Minister highlighted her government's efforts for development of the country as well as the armed forces. Mentioning her recent Japan visit, she said, Japan government has given commitment to provide US$6 billion for socioeconomic development of Bangladesh.

She said, the financial support of Japan would be utilized for implementing some big projects like inclusive city governance project, haor flood management and livelihood improvement project, natural gas efficiency projects, small and marginal sized farmers' agricultural productivity improvement and diversification financing projects.

Besides, Japan agreed to set up a 1300 MW capacity ultra critical coal-fired new power plant at Matarbari of Moheshkhali under Cox's bazar district, she said.

-Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS)