Commerce, Industry, Textiles, and Jute Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir said that, alongside strengthening the country’s defence capabilities, the defence sector should evolve into a modern, technology-driven, production-oriented industry capable of capitalising on export opportunities.
The country’s defence equipment production capacity will be expanded through the development of the Bangladesh Ordnance Factory, while also creating new employment opportunities.
The minister made the remarks as the chief guest at the agreement-signing ceremony for the transfer of Jalil Textile Mills Limited, which is under the Bangladesh Textile Mills Corporation (BTMC), to the Bangladesh Army. The transfer aims to facilitate the expansion of the Bangladesh Ordnance Factory (BOF).
The ceremony was held at the Jalil Textile Mills Auditorium in Bhatiari, Sitakunda Upazila of Chattogram, this afternoon.
Emphasising the evolving global landscape of the defence industry, the minister said the dynamics of warfare and defence capabilities are rapidly changing in today’s world.
Recent global conflicts have underscored the need for a shift towards technology-based defence systems, a transition that has been underway for the past two to three decades. Recent conflicts, in particular, have demonstrated how innovation and the application of modern technology at relatively low costs can significantly enhance a nation’s military capabilities.
Speaking as a special guest at the event, State Minister for Textiles and Jute Md. Shariful Alam said the government is actively working to revitalise the industrial sector by reopening previously closed industries across the country.
In line with the commitment made by the Prime Minister before taking office to reopen the country’s closed industries, efforts are underway to repurpose these facilities by assessing the condition and potential of various industrial establishments.
Brigadier General (Retd) Dr. AKM Shamsul Islam, Adviser to the Ministry of Defence and Armed Forces Division; General Waqar-uz-Zaman, Chief of the Bangladesh Army; Sharaf Uddin Ahmed Chowdhury, Secretary of the Ministry of Textiles and Jute; and Brigadier General SM Zahid Hasan, Chairman of BTMC, among others, addressed the function.
The Chattogram Divisional Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner, District Superintendent of Police, and senior officials from various government departments also addressed the function.
The agreement was signed by Brigadier General SM Zahid Hasan, Chairman of BTMC, on behalf of the Bangladesh Textile Mills Corporation, and Mrs. Sajie Taher, Military Estate Officer, on behalf of the Bangladesh Army.
