Sharjah 24 – WAM: His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, affirmed that the decision to unify the armed forces on May 6, 1976, was the cornerstone in strengthening the foundations of the UAE, supporting its cultural and development journey, and protecting its national achievements.

His Highness added, on the occasion of the forty-eighth anniversary of the unification of the armed forces, that despite their recent history, the UAE Armed Forces' success extends beyond protecting and stabilising the nation and preserving its capabilities. Today, with their high professionalism and exceptional efficiency, they have become a fundamental contributor to deterrence and peacekeeping in the region and the world.

In this regard, His Highness pointed out the active participation and effective presence of the armed forces in humanitarian operations and their contribution to relief and humanitarian aid campaigns. The latest of these is ‘Operation Chivalrous Knight 3’ led by the Joint Operations Command at the Ministry of Defence in the Gaza Strip, proving once again that the UAE Armed Forces are always a force for peace, reconstruction, goodness, and humanity.

Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan extended heartfelt congratulations to President 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, along with the Supreme Council Members, Their Highnesses Rulers of the Emirates, Crown Princes, Deputy Rulers and the citizens of the UAE, and the residents of its land, as well as to the officers and personnel of the UAE Armed Forces, on the occasion of the 48th anniversary of the unification of the armed forces.

His Highness continued, “It is a source of pride and honour that the armed forces of the UAE have achieved great accomplishments in the fields of education and knowledge, making the UAE an important hub for training and qualification in the region through its advanced military academies and colleges, in addition to the advancement of its defence industries.”

Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed congratulated the UAE Armed Forces while also remembering the martyrs of the nation and their sacrifices. These sacrifices will always be remembered by the nation.

He also reaffirmed that the UAE will continue to be a safe and secure place, just as it has been since its establishment. Stability and lasting peace are crucial for progress and prosperity. The armed forces will continue to be a strong shield that promotes security and stability in our nation and globally.