Concept of union strong in minds, hearts of Emiratis: Mohamed bin Zayed

Abu Dhabi (WAM): His Highness General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, has paid a glowing tribute to the Federal Supreme Council, led by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, on its historic resolution to unify the UAE Armed Forces on 6th May, 1976. He told Diraa al-Watan (Nation's Shield magazine) on the 38th anniversary of Unification of the UAE Armed Forces that the unification has since then strengthened the concept of union in the minds and hearts of Emiratis, thanks to the faith of the founding fathers in the union and development. Following is the full text of the speech: "6th of May, 1976, the day of unification of the UAE Armed Forces, represents the launch-pad for the comprehensive development being witnessed by the UAE, as well as for the strategic dimension and future of our dear country. The historic decision taken by the Federal Supreme Council led by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan on the unification of the armed forces under one command and one flag, set the solid foundation for the concept of union that had been instilled in the minds and hearts of Emiratis. The founding fathers, who had faith that the union was the sole path for development and progress in all fields, believed that the UAE needed a force to protect its achievements and sovereignty and prepare educated patriotic national cadres to defend it. We observe each year the anniversary of the unification of UAE Armed Forces amid new achievements in terms of armaments, training and military technology. This year's celebration comes in the wake of the Federal National Council's (FNC) resolution on the national and reserve service law. The new law will provide the armed forces with more national cadres. It will also boost the allegiance of the youth to the country and polish their capabilities and skills through military service, as they will acquire more ability to tackle difficulties and challenges. The resolution will also push forward the development process in the UAE, as the skills to be acquired by Emiratis during the military service will benefit them in practical life. I'm confident that Emiratis are ready for military service and to sacrifice anytime and anywhere. They have demonstrated that through our history and the region. This is why they reacted positively to the FNC resolution on the national and reserves law. Even many Emiratis who had exceeded the specified age have asked that they should have honour of joining the service. The youth are the hope of and the makers of the future, as no country can achieve development and progress except through the educated youth who love their country, pledge loyalty to the leadership and are ready to heed the call for duty anytime and anywhere. Of course, this sums up the status of our Emirati youth. The anniversary of Unification Day evokes the first years of the Union and how the late Sheikh Zayed and his brothers, members of the Federal Supreme Council of Rulers of the Emirates, had tackled difficulties with courage and a strong will to take the historic decision. It also relates the story of the development phases of the armed forces. We appreciate the self-denial and role of the first military batches who implemented the wise vision of the leadership in merging the armed forces. The armed forces witnessed in the first years of the Union huge qualitative developments at all levels. This legacy has been revamped by President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan by providing whatever it takes to keep our armed forces at the level of world armed forces in terms of armaments, training and others. The support for the armed forces is unlimited. It is the protective shield for the country, the symbol of its glory and the title of its image. It has proven to be a force to be reckoned with for regional stability and security, as it backs brothers in need. The UAE is always on the side of truth and extends a hand to whatever will ensure world peace and stability. It rejects all forms of threats or aggression, and calls for resolving all conflicts by dialogue and amicable methods. On this occasion, we reiterate our commitment to keep the UAE flag high and the country united and protected by our armed forces and all citizens. I seize this opportunity to congratulate President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Members of Supreme Council, Their Highnesses Rulers of Emirates, the UAE Armed Forces and all Emiratis ." – Emirates News Agency, WAM