Chittagong, Dec 29 (BDNEWS) – Prime Minister Khaleda Zia Thursday said latest warships, helicopters and maritime patrol-aircraft would be pressed into the country's naval fleet to build a three-dimensional naval force.
"Due to geographical location and strategic reason, it is important to ensure well-protection of country's boundary and have round-the-clock vigilance in the sea," Khaleda Zia said addressing the President's Parade of Bangladesh Naval Force at the parade ground of Bangladesh Naval Academy in Chittagong marking the successful commissioning of the Midshipmen of Alfa Batch of the Academy.
The Prime Minister said five offshore vessels, two Tugs and two-PPM Boats already joined the Bangladesh Navy and her government continued efforts to establish a strong naval force.
She said the naval officers of various levels from Qatar, Palestine, the Maldives, Sri Lanka, India, Pakistan and Turkey are receiving training from this academy.
A total of 29 midshipmen, including four Palestinians and a midshipwoman were commissioned to become acting sub lieutenants.
The Prime Minister distributed awards among the best midshipmen.
Akram Uddin Zahid was adjudged the best all rounder Midshipman and was awarded the Sword of Honour who also got the Osmani Gold Medal and Gold Medal of the Chief of Naval Staff for his outstanding performance.
A smartly turned-out contingent of naval cadets gave a guard of honor to the Prime Minister. She also reviewed the parade boarding a jeep and took salute from a march past by the cadets.
Ministers, MPs, diplomats, chiefs of three services of the armed forces and guardians of newly commissioned naval officers attended the function.
Navy Chief Rear Admiral M Hassan Ali Khan, Commodore Commanding Chittagong Commander Bazlur Rahman and Commanding Officer of Bangladesh Naval Academy Captain M Nasir received her at a ceremonial motorcade march of Bangladesh Navy.
BDNEWS/1928 hrs.
