Header

Sri Lanka Army

Defender of the Nation

19th April 2021 15:03:28 Hours

Army Troops Participate in Exercise in Bangladesh

A contingent of 30 Sri Lanka Army personnel at the request of the Bangladesh Army took part in the Exercise-‘Shantir Ogrishena-2021’ (Front Runner of Peace) in Bangladesh during 4-12 April.

The Exercise that coincided with the Golden Jubilee of Bangladesh Independence and commemoration of the Birth centenary of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the architect of independent Bangladesh, comprised of Robust Peace Keeping Operations, countering of asymmetric threat, protection of civilians and force, raids on hideouts, etc was launched at Bangabandhu Cantonment close to the Jamuna river.

Sri Lanka Army was represented by 7 Officers and 25 Other Ranks including three subject matter experts (SMEs) and 2 Observers. Royal Bhutan Army, Indian Army, Sri Lanka Army, together with Bangladesh Army personnel actively contributed to Exercise while 11 military observers from Saudi Arabia, US, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka attended the Exercise.

Bangladesh, a member of BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi sectorial Technical and Economic Cooperation) commemorates Sheikh Mujibur Rahman every year. He was also the recipient of the Joliot-Curie medal in 1973 by the World Peace Council for his devotion to the cause of peace.

A colourful ceremony plus a parade attended by all participating Armies was headed by the Chief of the Army General Azis of Bangladesh Army.

The Chief of the Indian Army, Deputy Chief Operations of the Royal Bhutan Army, The Force Commander MINUSCA (UN mission in Central Africa Region) and The Force Commander MINUSMA (UN Mission in Mali) graced the inaugural ceremony.

On the final closing day, Hon. Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheik Hasina was there as the Chief Guest, together with many local and international partners, gave away mementos.