Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has said the government wants to strengthen friendship and cooperation with all countries while safeguarding national interests and dignity.

He also said the government was working to modernise the armed forces and make the country’s defence system responsive to the changing global situation.

The prime minister made the remarks on Sunday at a ceremony at Savar Cantonment, where he presented the national flag to seven units of the Bangladesh Army.

Tarique Rahman said the national flag symbolises the country’s independence, sovereignty and sacrifices, adding that every soldier has a responsibility to uphold its honour.

“Efforts are continuing to build a technologically advanced, skilled, disciplined and professional armed force, with strength, discipline, competence, leadership, ethics and public trust going beyond military capability alone,” he said.