Mohammed's speech on the 33rd Unification Day

In a statement issued through Dira'a Al Watan to mark the 33rd anniversary of the unification of the UAE Armed Forces, Sheikh Mohammed said that the country's leadership is building for the future through the creation of a robust economy, supported by the establishment of educational, technological and youth institutions. The following is an edited translation of his full speech on the national occasion:

Fellow officers, non-commissioned officers and soldiers of the UAE Armed Forces,

History was made on that glorious day by our sincere leaders who laid the foundations for a modern state, centered on people and development, supported by sovereignty and stability, and built on the ideals of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and shared values.

Principal among our founding fathers, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, (May Allah Bless His Soul), was dedicated to strengthening our state by forming a strong, unified army, with  an unyielding belief in God, Islam, Arab nationality and independence.

The bringing together of the army was the first and most significant step in molding this modern state, recognized around the world, and member of the United Nations, as well as other regional and international organizations.

Although established as an independent sovereign state in 1971, the UAE Federation required domestic fortification. This was achieved through the unification of the country's military units under one flag and one leadership to become the Armed Forces of the United Arab Emirates, loyal to the state, the leadership and Arab nationalism.

Today, we celebrate the 33rd anniversary of the unification of the UAE Armed Forces, which have become a source of pride for the leadership and strong defender of our national assets and achievements.

The Supreme Command of the Armed Forces, under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has made available all means of weaponry and training facilities, enabling the armed forces to become a solid unit armed with honor, faith and a readiness to make sacrifices to protect the peace and stability of our national institutions.

Thanks to the experience and efficiency of our youth, the armed forces have become an example for other sisterly and friendly countries. This, of course, is the fruit of our leadership's efforts. Therefore, I say that future generations must study, train and gain the experience to keep the torch burning.

I take this opportunity to call on officers and all armed forces personnel to grow their knowledge and incorporate military technology to keep up with the latest developments, while at the same time maintaining current skill levels, discipline, courage and loyalty to the leadership and the country.

Congratulations to you on Armed Forces Day.

I would like to express congratulations and appreciation to my brother, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his efforts and diligent tracking of training and development programs within the Armed Forces. I say that our military considers him both an example to follow and a symbol of generosity, sincerity and good manners.

Officers and soldiers of the Armed Forces, I ask you to trust in your abilities, guard military secrets and weaponry to which you are entrusted, and maintain national, ethical and Islamic principles.