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Abu Dhabi / WAM
Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Bowardi, Minister of State for Defence Affairs, has said that the 43rd anniversary of the UAE Armed Forces’ Unification Day is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the country’s Armed Forces.
In a statement to ‘Nation Shield’, Al Bowardi noted that this year the Unification Day coincides with the ‘Year of Tolerance’, which provides an opportunity to celebrate the numerous achievements made by the UAE Armed Forces in humanitarian arenas, as well as the efforts to align with righteous and just causes, to support international legitimacy and to promote peace and stability in various regions of the world.
“As we mark 43rd Anniversary of the UAE’s Armed Forces Unification Day, we remember the historic decision taken on May 6, 1976 to establish the unified Armed Forces under one leadership and one flag, to support the pillars of the Union and safeguard the achievements and gains,” he said.
Al Bowardi continued, “We also remember the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who laid the foundation for the Union. This Union will remain strong and coherent, thanks to the keen efforts of our leadership and our people.”
Al Bowardi said that, besides its remarkable advancement in all walks of life, the UAE under its wise leadership seeks to spread happiness and to promote the spirit of tolerance and fraternity among the mankind.
“The UAE has earned respect of the international community and become a role model for the nations of the world. This could have not been achieved without the firm commitment of our leadership.”
Al Bowardi added that since the establishment of the Armed Forces almost half a century ago, the UAE leadership has spared no effort to modernise them, to ensure that they are equipped with the latest technology and that the personnel are highly trained, qualified and prepared to face any challenges.
“Today, we have highly-equipped and efficient Armed Forces, which defend our national gains to ensure the security, welfare, stability, happiness and dignity.”
He also mentioned the leadership’s initiative of issuing the federal law on mandatory National Service and Reserve, aimed at instilling values of loyalty and sacrifice in the hearts of the citizens, and inculcating the spirit of responsibility and discipline, respect for law, and time.
Al Bowardi praised the steps being taken to advance defence industries in the UAE to support the modernisation and self-reliance of the UAE Armed Forces and to enable economic development.
He concluded his statement by renewing greetings to the leadership and people of the UAE. He prayed to Allah the Almighty to rest the souls of the nation’s martyrs in peace and to reward their bravery and sacrifices with the Paradise.
“On this occasion, I extend my greetings to President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum; His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces; Supreme Council Members, Their Highnesses Rulers of the Emirates, and to the UAE Armed Forces, who are the guardians of our achievements.”