RIYADH: Defense Minister Prince Salman said Tuesday he would continue Prince Sultan's efforts to develop the armed forces and make it a big force. He also described land troops as the backbone of the Kingdom's armed forces.
Prince Salman made his remarks as he reviewed the combat preparedness of the land forces when he visited their command center.
He also discussed the force's mission with top officers and its support to other sectors of the armed forces.
"Prince Salman was also briefed on the land forces' capabilities," a report carried by the Saudi Press Agency said. Salman was appointed defense minister last week following the death of Prince Sultan.
Gen. Khaled bin Bandar, land forces commander, congratulated Prince Salman on his new appointment and hoped he would continue Sultan's efforts to strengthen the country's armed forces.
"Myself and my colleagues will dedicate our efforts in the service of the nation," Gen. Khaled told the minister.
In a message written in the command's registry, Prince Salman said he was happy to see the tremendous progress achieved by the land forces in terms training and armament.
Prince Salman earlier inspected a model of the new building for the command and its advanced facilities. Salman was accompanied by his deputy Prince Khaled bin Sultan.
Chief of Staff Gen. Hussein Al-Qubail and Gen. Khaled bin Bandar greeted Prince Salman on his arrival at the command.
© Arab News 2011
