The Minister of National Defense defended Tuesday that the government is committed to strengthening the professionalization of the armed forces, so that it can respond to the strategic objectives of the country and the circumstances and challenges of the current world.
“We’re going to bet on that, because it’s the professionalization that we think responds, both to the strategic objectives of the country and to the conditions in which we live”told the Lusa news agency Helena Carreiras, in Portimão, where she took part in the National Defense Day.
According to the Defense Minister, the type of international missions and requirements currently placed on the armed forces “necessitate a reinforcement of the level of professionalization, with specialization and additional qualification”.
“What we are trying to do is precisely strengthen the level of professionalization and the conditions to fully implement the professionalization of military service,” he stressed, adding that it is not the government’s intention to “renew compulsory military service.” to be introduced” in Portugal.
According to Helena Carreiras, greater training of the armed forces was enshrined in the state budget for 2023, “with a reinforcement of investment in fundamental areas”.
“There is a reinforcement in key areas related to our participation in international missions in the framework of NATO, the European Union, but also a significant reinforcement in the maintenance and operation of our assets”marked.
According to the minister, it is necessary to maintain the operational resources so that Portugal can “accompany the other pillar” in which the government will continue to work “that people value”.
“I am sure that this budget increase will complete the series of initiatives that will enable us to keep the armed forces capable and motivated. It is the challenge we will try to meet,” she noted.
Helena Carreiras took part this Tuesday in the National Defense Day in Portimão, Faro district, attended by about 80 young people, and visited the Naval Support Point of the Portuguese Navy.
Intervening in the auditorium of the Portimão Museum, the minister pointed out to young people the importance of the armed forces to “meet the new challenges and ensure the security faced by states” in today’s world.
“In these very great challenges we face, the armed forces are essential for the defense of countries, maintaining peace and security for all,” the minister said, referring to the war in Ukraine.
Helena Carreiras considered her presence in Portimão “an important moment to understand how the [da Defesa Nacional]how young people think about it and how they evaluate it”.
“Direct contact makes it possible to gather clues to improve the work of bringing Defense to society and fostering a true culture of Defense,” he concluded.
Source: DN
