Luanda — The 17 years of existence of the Angola Armed Forces (FAA), celebrated on October 9, were considered as of sacrifice, starting from its internal organisation and creation of its comprising branches (Land Forces, Air Force and Navy).

This was said Wednesday in Luanda by the chief of staff of FAA, gen. Francisco Furtado, during the inauguration of the socio-political and cultural events celebrating the date.

"We are aware of what has been done since the creation of the first FAA units, the training of staff and management of material resources, towards the good performance of the Armed Forces," said the officer.

He added that the lesson learned in 1991, when FAA were created, made it clear that the defence and integrity of the Angolan mother land required the constitution of a solid, organised and disciplined armed forces, ready for the mission of guaranteeing the independence and established democratic institutions.

"We think that during this period of the celebrating events we will talk about all aspects associated with the phase of preparation and development of FAA," stated the general.

October 9 was the day when, in 1991, the first step was set toward the creation and consolidation of the national unified armed forces, within the framework of the Bicesse Accords, signed in Portugal between Angolan Government and the then Unita rebel movement.

FAA emerged from the merger of the former Government forces (FAPLA) and the dismantled Unita armed wing (FALA).