DHAKA, June 13, 2021 (BSS) – President M Abdul Hamid today asked the new air chief to take necessary steps to enable the Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) to become a strong force equipping with modern technology in future.
The President made the call as the new Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Sheikh Abdul Hannan paid a courtesy call on him at Bangabhaban here this evening, President’s Press Secretary Md Joynal Abedin told BSS.
Welcoming the new air chief at Bangabhaban, President Hamid said the present government under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is taking and implementing various steps to transform the BAF into a smart and efficient force in line with the ‘Forces Goal 2030’.
The President appreciated the role of the air force in distributing relief, transporting medicines and medical supplies at the time of ongoing COVID-19 (Novel Coronavirus) pandemic.
The head of the state hoped that the BAF under his new leadership would go forward in days to come.
The new air chief sought all-out cooperation from the President during his assignment.
President Hamid assured the air chief of providing necessary cooperation in discharging his duties.
On Saturday afternoon, Air Vice Marshal Sheikh Abdul Hannan took over charge as the BAF chief, succeeding the outgoing Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Mashiuzzaman Serniabat.
Sheikh Abdul Hannan was appointed to this position for a period of three years.
BD envoy to Iraq meets President
Earlier, newly appointed Bangladesh ambassador to the Republic of Iraq Md Fazlul Bari paid a courtesy call on the President at the Presidential palace this afternoon.
During the meeting, the new ambassador sought the President’s guidance and cooperation in discharging his duties, Bangabhaban spokesman said.
Terming the existing bilateral relations of Bangladesh with Iraq as very excellent, President Hamid asked the new envoy to work for strengthening the trade and investment ties with Iraq in days to come.
President’s Office Secretary Sampad Barua, Military Secretary Major General SM Salah Uddin Islam, Press Secretary Md Joynal Abedin and Secretary (attached) Wahidul Islam Khan were present there.