What Sheikh Zayed wanted and dreamt of came true, says VP

dubai — “Our Armed Forces have enabled our homeland to reach greater heights, and our soldiers have demonstrated the true character of Emirati sons,” said His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai,

On the occasion of 42nd anniversary of the Unification of the UAE Armed Forces, Sheikh Mohammed said that the UAE’s Armed Forces are an example to be emulated when it comes to their efficiency and use of advanced weaponry, for the way they guard the sanctity of the country’s borders and for taking the initiative to support brotherly countries when need be.

“They have added powerful strength to our nation and deepened the level of loyalty and belonging to the homeland.”

Speaking to the military journal, ‘Nation Shield’, on the occasion, Sheikh Mohammed stated that the UAE Armed Forces’ officers have participated in thwarting an evil scenario to change the Arab identity of Yemen. Excerpts from his statement: “I wish to see all the sons and daughters of the UAE as they celebrate this auspicious occasion, to contemplate the march of our Armed Forces and draw lessons from the glories achieved by our brave soldiers and take pride in their success.

I remember vividly that following the unification, Sheikh Zayed assigned us a plan of action with four components: Building a force with a strong conviction in defending our homeland and in supporting the just causes of our nation, adopting best-in-class military systems and practices in the world, ensuring the Emiratisation of military cadres from top to bottom ranks; and finally establishing defence industries.

Thanks to Allah, these goals have been achieved under the direct supervision of the Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, my brother His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE, and with the determination and follow-up of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.

Today, reality speaks for itself. What Sheikh Zayed wanted and dreamt of came true. Our armed forces are a model to be copied for efficiency and advanced weaponry, guarding the sanctity of our country’s borders and preserving its achievements and gains.

I take the opportunity of this patriotic occasion, which is dear to the hearts of every citizen in our homeland, to pay tribute to our brothers and sons participating in the Arab Coalition Forces Restoring Hope to brotherly Yemen, who are fighting the dark forces of terrorism and extremism.” —

Our armed forces are a model to be copied for efficiency and advanced weaponry, guarding the sanctity of our country’s borders and preserving its achievements and gains.” Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid