The UAE Armed Forces create stability and peace, defending not only the rights of the Gulf and the Arab region, but also the rights throughout the world, H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras al-Khaimah has said.
Speaking to the military journal, 'Nation Shield', on the occasion of the UAE Armed Forces' 41st Unification Anniversary, marked on Saturday, 6th May, H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi said, "Our Armed Forces have demonstrated their agility and efficiency in the missions they have conducted, whether in helping their brothers, or when maintaining international peace and security, and assisting in areas of conflict, war and disaster in various areas around the world."
Below is the Ruler of Ras al-Khaimah's statement in full: "Today, we celebrate the 41st anniversary of the unification of our armed forces, which are the shield of defence of the homeland, a symbol of loyalty, generosity, unity, and pride for the Emirati people.
The unification of our armed forces on May 6th, 1976, under one central command and one flag, was a historical decision, which enabled our armed forces to become a pillar of security and stability for our country, and a major supporter of preserving the nation's gains and its march of development and modernisation.
Over the past years, our armed forces have proven to be a fortress of the UAE, and the makers of men who are always ready to defend their homeland with generosity and might. It is a force that creates stability and peace, defending not only the rights of the Gulf or the Arab region, but also rights throughout the world. Our armed forces have gained appreciation, respect, and admiration the world over, due to their high morals, competence and ability to work in diverse circumstances and environments.
Our Armed Forces have demonstrated their agility and efficiency in the missions they have conducted, whether in helping their brothers, or when maintaining international peace and security, and assisting in areas of conflict, war and disaster in various areas around the world.
My brother, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, has been keen to continue developing our armed forces as they are the shield that protects the homeland. This strategy was exemplified by my other brother, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, who pays special attention to developing human resources and push our armed forces to hold advanced ranks in training and awareness; and here today, the UAE Armed Forces are used as role models through their achievements in safeguarding legitimacy and justice.
On this cherished occasion, we remember the sacrifices of our martyrs, our valiant armed forces, and their heroic deeds. Their strengths and achievements are a clear example of the cohesion of the nation's people with its wise leadership, and their absolute belief that this leadership is equipped with political wisdom, and a just and balanced approach in assessing situations for the good and stability of our nation. These heroes have struck the finest example by sacrificing their lives believing in the importance of defending their homeland and legitimacy, and for seeking victory for the truth.
On this national occasion, I extend my warm congratulations to President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and Their Highnesses the Rulers of the Emirates, the UAE Armed Forces, and the people of the UAE, wishing our beloved nation further progress, prosperity and glory."

Source: WAM