Today on the occasion of Defence Forces Day we honour our men and women in uniform and pay tribute to them for their bravery and service to the country. We appreciate your hard work and loyalty to the nation. 

Defence Forces Day is also a time to recognize the efforts and sacrifices made not only by of all our SPDF personnel but also acknowledge the support they receive from their families. 

Faced with ever changing forms of threats, our military continues to play a critical role in ensuring our people and our sovereignty remains protected at all cost.

Our defence forces are the pride of our nation. Today we renew our commitment and pledge our support to our dedicated Defence Force.

As we adapt and prepare to face new challenges, we remain vigilant to ensure peace and stability continues to reign in our paradise Seychelles.We will continue to boost our military capacity, acquire new skills and invest in new equipment in order to address the new challenges. As a small island nation the protection of our territory is primordial. 

I would like to wish all our personnel of the military, SPDF civilian staff and their families a happy Defence Forces Day. You remain in our prayers and may God continue to bless and protect Seychelles.