UAE President hails army’s unity

Abu Dhabi: (WAM): President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan has hailed the decision of the founding fathers, then members of the Federal Supreme Council, to unify the UAE Armed Forces under one flag and one command, on the 6th May, 1976. He told Diraa al-Watan (Nation Shield magazine) in a statement on the occasion of the 38th anniversary of the Unification of the UAE Armed Forces, that the historic resolution was a springboard to the future. Sheikh Khalifa stressed that "the unification of the armed forces provided the material and moral support to our armed forces." Following is the full text of the speech: Sons and daughters, members of our Armed Forces, Officers and non-commissioned officers and personnel Al Salamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullah Wa Barakatu, "Peace Be Upon You" ''Today, we hail with pride the 38th anniversary of the Unification of the UAE Armed Forces and all the achievements that we have attained since 6th May 1976. Our late founding fathers, then Members of the Federal Supreme Council, had taken a historic decision to unify the UAE Armed Forces under one flag and one command in order to defend the gains of the homeland. The unification was triggered by the political interest and the popular will. It is a landmark in the history of the armed forces, as it provided material capabilities and moral support, enabling it to take rapid and remarkable steps in changing the armed forces into an integrated modern army to keep in pace with the highest international standards. In a few years, our armed forces developed rapidly into a modern army - well equipped with the latest military equipment and hardware. Above all, it has become an army capable of shouldering its responsibilities, as its personnel have devoted their lives for the sake of the nation. They did not spare their blood to keep the UAE 's flag high, thanks to their skills and expertise, as well as local and international achievements. Since their establishment, our Armed Forces have been keen on working with all institutions in the country to ensure the sustainability of comprehensive development. They cooperate with the regional and international powers to serve just causes and alleviate human suffering, internally and externally. The Armed Forces have succeeded to paint a prestigious and honourable image that reflects Emirati social values in the rightful use of force to achieve justice. The appropriate use of power establishes the country's bright image that ensures security and safety. The UAE Armed Forces' positive participation in the defence system of the GCC states is another sound demonstration of its high level, which reassures us that our national defence is in the right hands. The protection of the country, preserving its independence, sovereignty and achievements are the sacred national duties on the shoulder of every citizen. The constitutional institutions in the country have endorsed national and reserve service for all Emiratis. This aims at instilling loyalty and a sense of belonging among the youth to boost nationalist values, discipline, participation and sacrifice. The service would further develop readiness and the ability to meet challenges of present and future as well as contributing positively to the national development process. ''Our brave soldiers, On this glorious occasion, we renew our confidence in you and your ability to discharge this vital role for the sake of our country and citizens. We reaffirm our pride in you and your precious sacrifices for the homeland. We also emphasise that our armed forces will remain the shield that protects our country and safeguards its sovereignty. And while we appreciate this, we ask you to move steadily forward to discharging this noble duty for the sake of the homeland." Al Salamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullah Wa Barakatu " Peace Be upon You" – Emirates News Agency, WAM