Sharjah24 - WAM: Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, emphasised the crucial role of the UAE armed forces as the nation's protector and symbol of unity.

In his speech on the 48th anniversary of the unification of the UAE Armed Forces, Sheikh Saif bin Zayed highlighted their significance in safeguarding the nation and embodying values of sacrifice, redemption, and loyalty.

His Highness extended congratulations to the President and 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, along with the Supreme Council Members, Their Highnesses Rulers of the Emirates, Crown Princes, Deputy Rulers and the people of the UAE.

Reflecting on the unification of the armed forces in 1976, he praised the visionary decision made by the Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his fellow founders, emphasising its enduring impact on national unity, development, and global standing.

In his speech, His Highness added:

“On this auspicious occasion, we extend our deepest appreciation and gratitude to the officers and men of our valiant armed forces, who have remained true to their pledge to the nation and its wise leadership, defending it with their lives and souls, making sacrifices, and shouldering heavy burdens. We also extend our deepest gratitude and respect to the mothers and families of our fallen martyrs, whose memory will remain alive and glowing in our hearts and souls and in the nation's memory. We draw from their martyrdom the meanings of sacrifice and redemption, and a shining example for generations present and future.”

His Highness continued:

"Thus our country marches on the footsteps of glory and grandeur, following in the footsteps of our predecessors. And now, by the grace of Allah, we are living in a luminous era under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan under the title: More achievements with boundless ambition, and under the slogan: Determination and renewal of the pledge to enhance the position of our country and the sustainability of its renaissance and leadership. Our armed forces will continue to receive the most advanced modern technologies and the highest human skills, so that the UAE will continue to affirm its vital role as a unified force with a great impact on the regional and international levels.

“This is our pledge to our beloved nation and to our wise leadership. This is the source of appreciation and respect for our armed forces, the symbol of our national unity and our impregnable rock of defence, in order to preserve the values and principles on which the UAE was founded, so that the nation remains dear and safe, under the care of God, calling for good and peace, a symbol of love and a support for all humanity.”