Dhaka, Oct. 18 -- Protecting national interests, sovereignty and self-respect will be the core commitments of Bangladesh's future, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has said.

He made the pledge at a National Standard presentation ceremony at Savar Cantonment on Sunday morning.

"I want to say that protecting national interests, sovereignty and self-respect will be the core commitments of Bangladesh's future, In Sha Allah," he said.

"Bangladesh wants to strengthen friendship and cooperation with all countries on the basis of mutual respect and equality."

The ceremony was held to present National Standards, or national flags, to seven battalions and regiments of the Bangladesh Army in recognition of their professional achievements.

The reci...