Armed forces have made us proud
abu dhabi — The UAE armed forces have played a positive role during peace as well as conflicts around the world. They have fought the good fight and have prevailed. Their task is even more difficult in a world wracked by terrorism and extremist ideology that spews hate.
Our country’s brave men and women have made us proud after they were brought together this day 40 years ago when the Federal National Council led by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan made a historic resolution. “We are building an army not with the purpose of aggression or fighting another country, not for eventual expansion, but merely for defence,” said Sheikh Zayed.
Since then, our troops have shown valour, grit and determination under adverse circumstances in conflict zones. They have led humanitarian missions in difficult conditions, and we salute them on the occasion of the 41st UAE Armed Forces Day. The country’s leadership lauded their efforts, and said they would get all the support they need to fulfill their duties.
“The strength and readiness of our armed forces is the result of a comprehensive national strategic vision which has enabled our nation, with the help of Allah, to build a deterrent force in the hands of trained youth, equipped with the latest armaments, systems and technologies,” said the President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, said the sacrifices of martyrs would never be forgotten. “I stand with you in honouring our righteous martyrs, and reiterate our commitment to ensuring the welfare of their families and in providing comprehensive and lasting care for their children,” he said.
His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, said: “It goes without saying that our leadership appreciates your heroic actions in defending our country, safeguarding the security of the Gulf and combating the evil forces of terrorism and extremism.”
The strength and readiness of our armed forces is the result of a comprehensive national strategic vision... Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed
I stand with you in honouring our righteous martyrs, and reiterate our commitment to ensuring the welfare of their families... Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid
It goes without saying that our leadership appreciates your heroic actions in defending our country... Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed
Belonging to the armed forces will always be an honour, a duty and a right for all citizens.”
abu dhabi — The President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has reiterated his pride in the UAE Armed Forces personnel, praising the efforts and sacrifices made in order to protect the country and to preserve the achievements of its people.
Sheikh Khalifa made these comments on the 41st anniversary of the historic resolution to unify the UAE Armed Forces.
Here is the statement of the President on the occasion:
“My sons, commanders, officers, non-commissioned officers and soldiers of our valiant armed forces, may peace, Allah’s mercy and blessings be upon you.
“We are pleased that our country celebrates the 41st anniversary of the unification of its armed forces. We extend our heartfelt salute to you in light of efforts and the sacrifices you have offered to protect the country’s soil and to preserve the achievements of its people.
“On 6th May each year, we wholeheartedly recall our late founding fathers and leaders who made the historic decision to unify our armed forces. It is a day on which we pay rich tribute to the martyrs of the homeland who have sacrificed their lives for the sake of truth, and to safeguard our Gulf and Arab security. We stand by their families and take full care of their children. It is a day on which we extend our thanks to our loyal people who rally behind their leadership, and line up alongside our soldiers to encourage and motivate them.
“The strength and readiness of our armed forces is the result of a comprehensive national strategic vision which has enabled our nation, with the help of Allah, to build a deterrent force in the hands of trained youth, equipped with the latest armaments, systems and technologies.
“We, with our brothers, the Members of the Supreme Council, Their Highnesses the Rulers of the Emirates, are continuing to develop the capabilities of our armed forces, enabling them to continue to discharge their national defence duties and their universal humanitarian missions to safeguard international peace and security.
“My sons and daughters, we are proud of your achievements and successes in carrying out the tasks assigned to you. You have performed them efficiently and faithfully, and you have contributed to enhancing the security and stability of our nation, our people and our brothers in the Gulf Cooperation Council for Arab States, as well as helping the oppressed and delivering relief to the needy.
“Our armed forces will remain a symbol of national unity and support for our brothers and friends. Belonging to the armed forces will always be an honour, a duty and a right for all citizens.”