Armed forces, National Service take part in parade

The Ministry of Defence and Qatar Armed Forces participated in yesterday’s parade on the Doha Corniche as part of the 2017 Qatar National Day celebrations, whose motto – ‘Promise of Prosperity and Glory’ - was derived from the immortal words of Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, His Highness the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani.
In a statement yesterday, the Directorate of Defence Communication at the Ministry of Defence said the parade witnessed the participation of all units of the armed forces as well as National Service personnel. They included the Emiri Guard, Internal Security Force (Lekhwiya), state security service, different departments of the Ministry of Interior and the Police College. The air defence forces and the Al Zaeem Air College also
participated.
Delivering a speech at the start of the parade, HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs Dr Khalid bin Mohamed al-Attiyah said, “On this great day, we recite a memorial to the people of Qatar and recall the memory of the Founder - May Allah rest his soul - who established the basis of this country and who taught those men after him that this is a country where there is no place for
submission or humiliation.”
This year’s National Day comes at a time when the region faces special circumstances due to acts that are far removed from wisdom and guidance, it was observed.
But Qatar has shown the world how dignified and patient the leadership of this country is.
Addressing His Highness the Emir, HE Dr al-Attiyah said: “On behalf of the members of the armed forces, I would like to express my appreciation and gratitude for the trust and honour that Your Highness has bestowed in us, in all the people of Qatar and in all the residents of this land, through Your Highness’ wise and determined positions. These are the positions that have protected our country from the conspirators, and have prevented the region from getting lost in a maze that no rational being wishes on his enemy because of its devastating repercussions on regional and international peace - which Qatar always puts at the forefront of its priorities.
“The State of Qatar wanted to keep our Gulf united and strong, while others preferred to put it through unimaginable adventures. They wanted to hurt their neighbours and weaken a country that had stood by them in good and bad times.
“Your Highness, the armed forces are an integral part of the Qatari people and are always committed to confronting threats to the country. We are here to renew our loyalty and to make sure that we are in the utmost readiness and at your
disposal with no hesitation.”
In the same context, Lt Col Nawaf bin Mubarak bin Saif al-Thani, director, Directorate of Defence Communication, said: “The world today witnessed the first production of the Comprehensive Development Plan of the Qatar Armed Forces, which was an important aspect of the national parade.”