BANGLADESH MARKS 54TH ARMED FORCES DAY IN MALAYSIA, HIGHLIGHTS DEFENCE COOPERATION

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 25 (Bernama) -- Bangladesh marked its 54th National Armed Forces Day in Malaysia with a renewed emphasis on strengthening defence cooperation with the country, describing Malaysia as one of its most trusted and reliable partners.

Bangladesh High Commissioner to Malaysia, Manjurul Karim Khan Chowdhury, speaking at a reception to mark the occasion, said the two nations share deep bonds of friendship, mutual respect and long-standing cooperation.

“We have strong and sustained defence cooperation with Malaysia, which includes high-level visits, professional exchanges, joint training, and visits by naval ships and Air Force aircraft,” he said here Tuesday night.

Manjurul Karim also noted the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on Defence Cooperation last August, describing it as a long-awaited milestone that underscores both countries’ enduring commitment to regional security and mutual growth.

Meanwhile, Defence Adviser at the Bangladesh High Commission to Malaysia, Commodore Md Hasan Tarique Mondal, said that since independence, the Bangladesh Armed Forces have continuously evolved, modernising, equipping, and training themselves to safeguard the nation’s security and interests.

“The Armed Forces of Bangladesh strive to foster meaningful engagement and cooperation with nations around the world. We remain committed to strengthening the bond and brotherhood with all our comrades in uniform, irrespective of geography or culture,” he added.

He also expressed appreciation to the members of the Malaysian Armed Forces for their continued support, friendship and cooperation, particularly in defence exchanges, training opportunities and long-standing military-to-military ties.

Deputy Chief of the Royal Malaysian Navy, Vice Admiral Datuk Shamsuddin Ludin, represented the Malaysian government at the reception.

Bangladesh observes its Armed Forces Day on Nov 21.

-- BERNAMA