President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Sunday said the government is committed to transforming the armed forces into a modern, technology-driven, four-dimensional force to effectively address evolving global security challenges.

The president said the government’s Bangladesh First policy has been adopted to strengthen defence planning, preparedness, deterrence capability and the country’s overall national security strategy, he said while addressing the 51st founding anniversary of the President Guard Regiment at Dhaka Cantonment.

‘Implementation of these policies and initiatives will enhance the overall capability and efficiency of the armed forces. The country’s defence system will become more efficient, modern and stronger. At the same time, the operational capability of the PGR as a specialised unit of the Bangladesh Army will also be strengthened,’ he said.

The president said the security of the head of State, the head of government and other important national and foreign dignitaries is closely linked to national security and the country’s prestige.

He stressed the need for stronger coordination among law enforcement agencies, intelligence organisations and relevant ministries to ensure an even more robust security system.

‘I know you are performing your duties in coordination with one another. I hope this understanding and cooperation will be further strengthened in the future,’ he said.

The president also urged PGR personnel to give the highest priority to the protection of important personalities while ensuring that security arrangements do not hinder their normal interaction and communication with public.

Highlighting emerging security challenges, Shahabuddin emphasised the need to enhance technology-based capabilities, intelligence analysis and inter-agency coordination to tackle cyberattacks, artificial intelligence-based risks and hybrid security threats.

‘The concept of security is changing rapidly around the world, and new threats have emerged alongside conventional security risks,’ he said.

‘There is no alternative to strengthening technology-driven capabilities, intelligence analysis, effective strategies and constant preparedness to address these challenges,’ the president added.

He expressed hope that the President Guard Regiment would further enhance its capabilities through modern technology, international-standard training and professional excellence, while keeping pace with evolving global security strategies.

The president paid tribute to the martyrs of the Liberation War, valiant freedom fighters and Biranganas.

He also remembered martyred President Ziaur Rahman, saying the President Guard Regiment developed into its present form under his leadership.

He also acknowledged the contribution of former prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia to the expansion and professional development of the regiment.

The president paid homage to the five PGR members who were killed during the assassination of president Ziaur Rahman on May 30, 1981, as well as all members who laid down their lives in the line of duty.

He also prayed for the souls of those killed during the July-August 2024 mass uprising and expressed sympathy for those who were injured.

Describing the PGR as one of the Bangladesh Army’s most specialised, disciplined and professional units, Shahabuddin said it plays a vital role in ensuring the security of the president, the prime minister, foreign dignitaries and other important state personalities, while representing the country’s dignity during state ceremonies.

He said the regiment has evolved into a comprehensive and independent institution as its responsibilities have expanded over time.

Addressing PGR officers, junior commissioned officers and soldiers, the president said their duties are highly sensitive, prestigious and challenging, requiring vigilance, sound judgement, self-discipline, professional competence and the ability to make swift decisions at all times.

He commended PGR personnel for carrying out their responsibilities with dedication and professionalism despite adverse weather, complex situations and long working hours, thereby upholding the proud traditions of both the regiment and the Bangladesh Army.

The president said that alongside modern weapons and technology, discipline, loyalty to leadership, ethics and a strong sense of responsibility remain equally important for maintaining a professional force.

At the same time, he said PGR members must remain sensitive to ensuring that security measures do not disrupt normal public access to and interaction with important personalities.

Expressing confidence in the regiment’s future, Shahabuddin said the President Guard Regiment would continue to earn public trust through integrity, discipline, professionalism and a strong sense of responsibility while setting an example in the discharge of state duties.

Army chief, military secretary to the president, secretary to the president and press secretary to the president were present at the programme.