President Assad made the remarks in an address to the Syrian Arab Army through Jaish al-Shaab (the Army of the People) magazine on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the foundation of the Syrian army on August 1, 1945.

Assad said the army has set a shining example in sacrifice and loyalty to homeland.

The Syrian president stated that the army has risen up to the challenges posed to country by terrorists and has shown unwavering resolve and willingness to protect the Syrian land and heritage.

“Because you embodied an example in defending the homeland and preserving the integrity of its people, the Syrian people have stood side by side with you to repulse the aggressors and to express their pride in you,” President Assad said.

He also remembered those who have lost their lives in the battle against terrorists, appreciating “every single drop of blood spilled to protect precious Syria.”

Meanwhile, Syrian Defense Minister General Fahd Jassem al-Freij told the Syrian TV on the occasion that the army has protected Syria’s sovereignty and independence and played a prominent role in protecting the Syrian territory and the dignity of the nation.

He also paid a field visit to an army unit in the southern region of the country, observing the readiness of the unit and the morale of the soldiers.

Syrians at home and abroad including those in Italy, Romania and Ukraine, also celebrated the occasion, expressing their loyalty to the homeland and their solidarity with the Syrian army in the face of the Takfiri terrorists.

Syria has been dealing with massive foreign-sponsored militancy for the past four years. The conflict has reportedly killed an estimated 230,000 people so far, including nearly 11,500 children.