Sisi, Bin Zayed grace graduation ceremony at Military Academy
Escalation, violence, destruction exacerbate regional, international tensions
In a significant address during the graduation ceremony for military academies, marking the 51st anniversary of the October War, President Abdel Fattah El Sisi reaffirmed that a just peace is the only path to sustainable coexistence in the region.
Speaking at the Strategic Leadership Academy in the New Administrative Capital, President Sisi underscored the current critical juncture in the Middle East, noting that escalation, violence, and destruction would only drive the region closer to the brink, threatening the interests of all peoples yearning for security and development.
Sisi reiterated Egypt’s unwavering commitment, supported by international consensus, to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state as the sole means to achieve peace, security, and stability for all.
President Sisi said that the month of October descends every year, embracing the breezes of victory and glory. Those are the days when we reflect on the lessons of victory, honour our heroes and martyrs, and commemorate the anniversary of the great October War victories. These festivities coincide with the graduation of new batches from the Egyptian Military Academy, who will stand steadfast in the arenas of honour and heroism, safeguarding Egypt’s security and ensuring the safety and well-being of its people. They have undergone the highest and finest military and scientific training.
On such days, 51 years ago, Egypt achieved a victory that will forever be enshrined in the memory of this nation and endure in the annals of its glorious history. This victory serves as a powerful reminder that this nation, with the cohesion of its people, leadership and army, is capable of conquering the impossible, no matter how daunting. The spirit of October is not about void rhetoric, rather it is embedded in the core of this people and in their noble character, which shines brightest in times of peril, revealing the true power of the truth, self-respect and unyielding resolution, he said.
Egypt’s remarkable achievement in the glorious October War will be perpetuated as a testament to the unwavering resolve of the Egyptian people, the competence of its armed forces and the Egyptians’ outstanding capacity for meticulous planning and implementation.
President Sisi said, “Our commemoration of the glorious October War victory this year occurs at a precarious moment in the history of our region, which is grappling with rising bloodshed, ravaging the resources of our peoples and compromising the security and safety of our countries.”
This regional escalation unfolds amidst an atmosphere of wary anticipation by the global community. This is reminiscent of the Egyptians’ achievement, through their solidarity and resilience, in building our Armed Forces to safeguard this precious homeland and shatter any illusions held by any party, he added.
This watershed moment our region is currently experiencing demands a renewed commitment to just and equitable peace as the only path to lasting and safe coexistence among the peoples of the region. Escalation, violence and destruction will further plunge the region into abyss and exacerbate regional and international tensions, ultimately undermining the interests of all peoples striving to live in security, peace and prosperity.
Grounded in this perception, Egypt reaffirms its unequivocal and unshakable stance, supported by international consensus, on the imperative to establish an independent Palestinian state as the only viable path to establish peace, security and stability for all.
President Sisi also acknowledged the sacrifices made by the Egyptian Armed Forces, emphasising their vital role in upholding national security. He extended his respect to the military institution, praising its unwavering commitment to responsibility and service across generations.
We express our deepest respect and gratitude to the soul of the heroic martyr, late President Mohamed Anwar Sadat, who championed the restoration of the nation’s dignity and the reclaiming of its land, through war and peace, demonstrating bravery and strategic brilliance.
He assured that Sadat’s legacy would not be forgotten, serving as a solid foundation for the nation’s future.
Finally, Sisi expressed gratitude for the resilience and unity of the Egyptian people, declaring that their sacrifices form an enduring river of contributions throughout history. He reiterated that Egypt, united, will prevail over all challenges and continue to move forward with divine guidance and the unwavering spirit of its citizens.
The ceremony was attended by UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, along with numerous military leaders, ministers, and senior officials. Graduating classes included the 118th batch from the Military Academy, the 75th from the Naval Academy, the 91st from the Air Academy, the 61st from the Military Technical Academy, the 52nd in Air Defence, and the 53rd from the Technological Academy.
The celebrations began with the national anthems of Egypt and the UAE, followed by a film titled “The New Republic,” showcasing the efforts made over the past decade to modernise Egypt. The film highlighted the monumental task of building a new republic, focusing on substantial infrastructural developments, national projects, and the military’s role in driving comprehensive development.
The ceremony included impressive aerial displays, with helicopters carrying the Egyptian flag and military emblems, and a formation of 19 aircraft representing the 118th graduating class. Highlights included demonstrations by special forces, showcasing their skills in tactical operations, and a simulated anti-terror operation that underscored the military’s preparedness and capabilities.
The event concluded with the swearing-in of graduates, who pledged loyalty to Egypt and commitment to their military duties. President Sisi approved the commissioning of graduates from various military branches, including the Medical Corps, affirming their roles as new leaders in defence of the nation.
