Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman yesterday called for mutual cooperation to build a beautiful Bangladesh where people from all communities can live peacefully side by side.

The Bangladesh Army is committed to taking all necessary measures to ensure that every religious community can celebrate their festivals peacefully and maintain social harmony, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a press release.

He also expressed his gratitude to diplomats working in foreign missions in Dhaka for their significant contribution to the progress of Bangladesh.

The army chief made these remarks as the chief guest of the 2024 National Buddhist Religious Conference and the auspicious Kathina Robe Offering Ceremony held at the International Buddhist Monastery in Merul Badda.

In the statement, it was stated that the event was organized by the Bangladesh Buddhist Federation.

In his speech, the army chief urged the people of the hill areas, including both indigenous communities and Bangalee communities, to work together for peace and harmony in the region.

Kathina heartily congratulated all those present at the Gown Offering Ceremony and thanked the participants who had traveled from different parts of Bangladesh, including the hills.

He emphasized the importance of developing the tourism industry in hill lands while preserving local languages, culture and diversity.

He expressed optimism that the establishment of more schools, colleges and universities in these areas will provide local students with the opportunity to showcase their talents both domestically and internationally.

Concluding his speech, he expressed his sincere appreciation to the Buddhist Federation and law enforcement for supporting the peaceful celebration of Buddhist ceremonies across the country.

On October 10, a delegation from the Bangladesh Buddhist Federation showed him courtesy at the Army Headquarters, during which he promised financial and security support for the Prabarana Purnima and Kathina Robe Offering Ceremony in the three hill districts.

Fulfilling this commitment, he recently presented a donation check of Tk 1 to the Buddhist Federation on behalf of the Bangladesh Army, the statement said.

He added that this year, 266 Buddhist monasteries across the country, including CHT, celebrated the Kathina Robe Offering Ceremony with due religious solemnity.

Chief of General Staff of Bangladesh Army and GOC of 9th Infantry Division were present during the visit.

The event was also attended by president Dharmapriya Mahathera, chief preacher S Lokajit Mahathera, monks from various monasteries, senior government and special officials, diplomats from foreign missions in Dhaka, members of the Buddhist community and representatives from various media houses. publication added.