The National Library and Archives Organizes a National Symposium in Celebration of the Golden Jubilee of the Unification of the Armed Forces

In collaboration with the Ministry of Defence, the National Library and Archives (NLA) organized a national symposium titled “The Unification of the Armed Forces in the National Memory” to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of the UAE Armed Forces Unification. The symposium was held as part of the NLA role in documenting the nation’s history, preserving its national memory, highlighting pivotal milestones in the Union’s journey, and instilling the values of belonging and loyalty in future generations.
Hosted at Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy, the symposium opened with a documentary celebrating the unification of the Armed Forces, capturing its enduring legacy as a cornerstone of the nation’s history.
In his opening speech, His Excellency Dr. Abdullah Majid Al Ali emphasized that the decision to unify the Armed Forces was a historical step that contributed to consolidating the pillars of the Union and strengthening its foundations. He also highlighted the vital role of the Armed Forces in protecting the nation and safeguarding its achievements, noting that its high state of readiness and efficiency reflect the strategic vision of the wise leadership.
Furthermore, His Excellency expressed his gratitude to the wise leadership and to all ranks of the Armed Forces, who have shown the world the fortitude of the UAE and its profound capability to protect its land and national pride.
Staff Major General Saeed Salmeen Al Alawi, Commandant of the National Defence College and representative of the Ministry of Defence in the symposium, emphasized that the decision of the Armed Forces unification went far beyond a regulatory action. He underscored that it embodied the strategic vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his fellow brothers, Rulers of the Emirates, who realized that the foundation of the Union rested upon a unified military.
He noted that this vision continues to be instilled today under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. This is achieved by strengthening the readiness of the Armed Forces and upgrading their capabilities, enabling them to carry out their duties in defending the homeland and contributing to regional and international security and stability.
Serving as both moderator and speaker, Dr. Abdullatif Alsayyadi introduced the session’s speakers and emphasized that this year’s observance of the Armed Forces’ unification is of profound significance. Coinciding with the Golden Jubilee, the milestone underscores the powerful ascent of the UAE Armed Forces and their crucial role in deterring aggression with unmatched efficiency and exceptional professionalism. Showcasing capabilities that have garnered global admiration, the Armed Forces stand as an impenetrable shield and a stalwart fortress, steadfastly protecting the nation’s accomplishments.
Sheikh Faisal bin Sultan Al Qassimi praised the visionary foresight of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan regarding the significance of unifying the Armed Forces and traced the stages of their development from the pre-Union era to the present day.
He also affirmed that the decision to unify the Armed Forces, signed at Abu Mureikha in Abu Dhabi in 1976, was a pivotal milestone in state-building. He noted that the existing military formations across the Emirates were already prepared for integration into a unified force following the establishment of the United Arab Emirates.
Reflecting on the evolution of the Armed Forces since 1976, Staff Major General Saeed Salmeen Al Alawi highlighted the significant progress made in military doctrine, training, and armament. He emphasized that these continuous advancements have allowed the forces to align with international best practices and bolster their ability to protect the nation’s accomplishments, reflecting the strategic foresight of the wise leadership.
He also highlighted the integration of the Armed Forces’ role with the UAE’s diplomatic and humanitarian efforts, reviewing their participation in a number of humanitarian and relief missions across several countries, which reflects the nation’s approach of combining hard military power with soft power.
On the sidelines of the event, the National Library and Archives organized a photo exhibition documenting the key milestones in the establishment and development of the Armed Forces, alongside their national contributions and humanitarian roles.
The symposium shed light on important details surrounding the origins and evolution of the Armed Forces, their national and humanitarian roles, and the unification of the Armed Forces as one of the most significant historic achievements that contributed to consolidating the Union and advancing the development journey of the United Arab Emirates.