Cairo: Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and Minister of Defense and Military Production Lieutenant General Ashraf Salem Zaher met a number of personnel from the Southern Military Zone, as well as members of formations and units affiliated with the region via video conference. The meeting was attended by Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces Lieutenant General Ahmed Khalifa and senior commanders of the Armed Forces.

According to State Information Service Egypt, Southern Military Zone Commander Major General Osama Samir Abdel Latif emphasized that the defenders of the southern strategic direction will continue to maintain a high level of combat readiness to carry out all assigned tasks to safeguard national security and protect the homeland, regardless of sacrifices.

The Defense Minister conveyed greetings and appreciation from President Abdel Fattah El Sisi, praising the efforts and sacrifices of the military zone personnel, who demonstrate high morale and unwavering determination to maintain stability along Egypt's southern borders.

He highlighted the important role played by the region in combating smuggling and illegal gold mining, as well as its support for civil society in the governorates under its responsibility.

The commander-in-chief also reviewed regional and international developments and their implications for Egypt's national security, stressing the importance of troops' awareness of such challenges and of state efforts to address them.

He underlined that securing Egypt's borders and protecting national security is a sacred duty with zero tolerance, affirming that the Armed Forces operate with the highest levels of vigilance and a firm doctrine that prioritizes the nation's interests above all.

He further stressed that human development is a key pillar in advancing state institutions, through scientific, cultural, and training preparation, ensuring readiness to perform assigned missions.

He also urged personnel to maintain combat efficiency and technical readiness of weapons and equipment to remain at the highest level of preparedness.