UAE President HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan has hailed the decision of the founding fathers to unify the UAE Armed Forces under one flag and one command, on the 6th May, 1976.
“We hail with pride the 38th anniversary of the Unification of the UAE Armed Forces and all the achievements that we have attained since 6th May 1976. Our late founding fathers, then Members of the Federal Supreme Council, had taken a historic decision to unify the UAE Armed Forces under one flag and one command in order to defend the gains of the homeland,” Sheikh Khalifa said.
“Since their establishment, our Armed Forces have been keen on working with all institutions in the country to ensure the sustainability of comprehensive development. They cooperate with regional and international powers to serve just causes and alleviate human suffering, internally and externally. The Armed Forces have succeeded to paint a prestigious and honorable image that reflects Emirati social values in the rightful use of force to achieve justice. The appropriate use of power establishes the country's bright image that ensures security and safety,” he added.
“The UAE Armed Forces' positive participation in the defense system of the GCC states is another sound demonstration of its high level, which reassures us that our national defense is in the right hands,” he noted.
Meanwhile, Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said: “I salute officers and soldiers of the UAE on the day of our Armed Forces. I salute your spirit of selflessness, your willingness to sacrifice and your resolve to stand out and to adapt to the latest in the armament, technology, organization, management and training.”
“This year's celebration has a special significance as we prepare to implement the compulsory military service for our male youth, which will be optional for women,” he added.
“I am particularly proud that our Armed Forces has become a key incubator for development and progress in building capabilities and in laying the foundation for advanced defense manufacturing industries, paving the way for technology transfer and eventually, for the Emiratisation of technology, promoting Research and Development, contributing to economic diversification drive and accelerating the transition from conventional to knowledge-based economy”, he continued.
For his part, HH General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of UAE Armed Forces, attended the celebration (photo) organized Tuesday night by UAE Armed Forces at the Armed Forces Officers’ Club to mark its 38th Unification Day anniversary.
Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed was greeted upon arrival by Mohamed Ahmed Al Bawardi Al Falasi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Defense, Lt. General Hamad Mohammed Thani Al Rumaithi, Chief of Staff of UAE Armed Forces, Military Commanders and high-ranking Officers.
Sheikh Mohamed emphasized that the Armed Forces are a source of pride for the leadership and people of UAE.
In his speech, Lt. General Al Rumaithi thanked General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, honoring the Armed Forces' celebration.
Lt. General Al Rumaithi noted that the coming phase will advance the Armed Forces to new horizons on the way to achieve ambitions and keep up with the aspirations of the leadership for overall development.
Source: Emirates News Agency, WAM - Photo: Al-Bayan
