Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has extended his heartfelt greetings and congratulations to the members of Bangladesh Coast Guard (BCG) on the occasion of its 31st founding anniversary to be celebrated tomorrow.

He, in a message today, said the members of Bangladesh Coast Guard will perform their duties with integrity, discipline, professionalism and patriotism.

Praising the force for becoming a symbol of trust among coastal people, Prof Yunus hoped that the BCG’s contribution to strengthen maritime security and uphold national dignity will be more extensive and effective in the days to come.

Established in 1995 with the motto ‘Guardian at Sea’, the BCG is committed to the protection of the maritime economy and the safety of the coastal people, the message said.

Starting operations with limited manpower and vessels, over time, through increasing capacity, acquiring strategic skills and achieving technological excellence, the BCG has now emerged as a full-fledged force, it said.

The BCG’s role in ensuring security at sea, suppressing smuggling and human trafficking, preventing drugs, conserving fish resources, implementing sanctuaries, and protecting Jatka and Hilsa is commendable, the message also read.

Apart from the routine activities, the Chief Adviser said this force provides relief and rescue services with speed and professionalism in various natural disasters and emergency situations, including cyclones, floods, and tidal waves.

He also thanked the coast guard for its active participation in various activities to improve the law and order situation in the country after the July Uprising and for ensuring the safety of the people.

The Chief Adviser wished the overall success of all the programmes of the BCG force undertaken on the occasion.