Chief of staff highlights Navy role

Zaire,  Soyo - The Chief of Staff of the Angolan Armed Forces (FAA), General Geraldo Sachipengo Nunda stressed Tuesday in the Naval Base in Soyo, northern Zaire province, the mission of the Angolan Navy in the protection of economic resources at sea.  Geraldo Sachipengo Nunda was speaking at the main event that marked on 10th July the 36th anniversary of that branch, also belonging to the Angolan Armed Forces. The FAA chief stressed the dedication and zeal the Navy shows in its task of protecting the see, water resources, environment, and combating the piracy, drug trafficking and other goods.  He defended the continued training of staff in this branch and the acquisition of ships and weapons, under the ongoing rebuilding plan of the FAA.   The Chief of General Staff also drew attention to the importance of Naval Soyo region, which has the mission to control the river Zaire, an international shipping route.  "This is an area of national importance for oil production off and on-shore and more recently the setting up of Angola LNG project, which will enable the production of liquefied natural gas, a world attraction," he said.  Speaking of the election set for August 31 this year, the General cautioned the FAA personnel to the need for rigorous compliance with the Constitution and the Organic Law of Elections.  He recalled that the military members are non-partisan, so they should not do politics in the barracks or elsewhere, neither to take part in rallies and demonstrations in the favour of any political party.    The event started with the laying of a wreath on the Zaire River and continued with the promotion of more than two dozen officers. The beginning was also marked by the delivery of gifts and trophies to the winners of sporting activities and the sailors and retired from the Navy.  Attended the ceremony, the governor of Zaire, Pedro Sebastiao, military attaches accredited to Angola, traditional authorities, religious leaders and other guests.