ABU DHABI/ WAM
Mohamed Mubarak Fadhel Al Mazrouei, UAE Minister of State for Defence Affairs, affirmed that the UAE Armed Forces have proven since their establishment their ability to achieve national stability and maintain continuous readiness to defend the sovereignty and interests of the country.
He emphasised the importance of continuing to develop UAE Armed Forces to keep pace with developments and enhance their capabilities to adapt to global changes, especially in light of the rapid developments and increasing security and geopolitical challenges witnessed worldwide.
In a speech on the occasion of the 48th anniversary of the unification of the UAE Armed Forces, which falls on May 6th of each year, he said, “The decision to unify the armed forces was not just an organisational step, but rather the establishment of a national approach based on a long-term strategic vision. This decision strengthened the ability of the UAE to face the geopolitical challenges surrounding us and put us on a strong path towards building a modern and secure state.”
He added, “The UAE Armed Forces, since its establishment, have proven their ability to achieve national stability and maintain continuous readiness to defend the sovereignty and interests of the country. The world around us is witnessing rapid developments, and security and geopolitical challenges are constantly increasing. Therefore, it is essential to keep pace with developments and continue to modernise our armed forces to enhance their capabilities to adapt to global changes.”
He affirmed that the strategic orientations of the country stem from a belief in the importance of regional and international cooperation. Through UAE’s partnerships and alliances with countries in the region and the world, it has strived to enhance global security and stability. In this context, the armed forces have proven that they are not only a strong shield for defending the nation, but also an effective humanitarian force. They have demonstrated their ability to operate both in battlefields and in humanitarian fields, standing alongside brothers and friends in times of hardship and crises. They have always been at the forefront of international efforts to assist the needy and relieve the afflicted, and have participated in peacekeeping operations.
He stated: “We believe that sustainable peace can only be achieved through a developed and highly efficient military force. This is what we constantly strive for through the development of our military capabilities, the enhancement of modern technologies, and the qualification of our national cadres at the highest levels. Military excellence is not just a goal but a necessity to protect our sovereignty and ensure our stability.”
He added, “Celebrating the anniversary of the unification of the armed forces is a reaffirmation of our commitment to continue on this path, and to look forward to a secure and stable future.
“On this special day, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to President and the Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, and Their Highnesses, Supreme Council Members, and Rulers of the Emirates, the Crown Princes, the Deputy Rulers, and we pledge to them to remain loyal soldiers to the flag of the nation, ready to sacrifice all that we have for the prosperity of the UAE and to defend its borders.
“I can only express my profound gratitude to all the members of the armed forces for their dedication and loyalty in serving the nation, and to their families who support them in this noble mission. We do not forget our brave martyrs who sacrificed their lives and set the finest examples of sacrifice and dedication in the journey of our armed forces to establish the pillars of security and stability.”
In conclusion, Mohamed Mubarak Fadhel Al Mazrouei affirmed that the UAE will remain a leader in the field of security and stability, aiming for peace to prevail worldwide.