Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina says she will do everything to help freedom fighters

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has assured freedom fighters that her government would do whatever is necessary to improve their lives.

The prime minister made the statement at a reception honouring Freedom Fighters and their families on National Armed Forces Day on Monday.

“It is because of your contribution that we are able to develop Bangladesh,” the prime minister said, “It is because of you that we are respected around the world. It is because of your heroic sacrifice that our country calls itself free. This is why I will continue to do whatever is necessary for the benefit of our brave Freedom Fighters and their families.”

Seventy freedom fighters and their families were present at the Prime MInister's reception hosted at the Armed Forces Division.

During the event, 20 freedom fighters who had served in the armed forces were presented with special credentials which would allow them to secure various state benefits.

“I know the pain of losing loved ones,” said Hasina. “I always carry that pain with me in my work. And I consider it an honour to work for the benefit of the freedom fighters who have lost their loved ones, have suffered disabilities but have contributed to our country.”

On Nov 21, 1971,  members of the army, navy and air forces launched coordinated attacks against the Pakistan army that. Bangladesh commemorates the occasion as ‘National Armed Forces Day’.

“It is our national duty to honour the unprecedented contributions of freedom fighters for Bangladesh’s independence,” said Hasina. “Our government is determined to preserve and respect this legacy.”

The Awami League government has worked to develop the country according to the hopes of those who fought to liberate it  she said.

She also discussed the government efforts to develop the country’s economy and the financial well-being of its citizens.

“We have taken on various projects so that Bangladesh can stand on a firm economic foundation... if we use our resources effectively, we can develop our country,” she said.

The prime minister also spoke of the Freedom Fighter Complex project that was currently underway in every district and 422 Upazilas in the country.

The complexes will contain a variety of exhibits and information on the Liberation War and allow for assemblies for freedom fighters. Construction has been completed on 43 district complexes and 161 Upazila complexes.

“These complexes will allow our people to learn the true history of the war,” said Hasina. “No one will dare distort our history.”

Before the reception the prime minister presented flowers at the armed forces education institute at the Dhaka Cantonment to salute the martyred freedom fighters of the army, navy and air force.

The prime minister also praised the contribution of Bangladesh’s armed forces at the reception.

“Our armed forces are entrusted with the protection of our freedom,” she said. “Alongside this sacred duty they have also provided essential support for natural disaster relief efforts, national development projects, infrastructure construction and the maintenance of law and order.”