MUSCAT - His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, presided at the grand military parade at Maidan Al Fath in Wattayah yesterday afternoon to mark the 30th anniversary of the Renaissance. The text of His Majesty's speech delivered on the occasion follows:

In the name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful.  Praise be to God for His bounties and favours. And may blessings and peace be upon the seal of his Prophets, and upon his family and his excellent companions, as night follows day.

Dear citizens,  One of the favours God has bestowed upon us all is that He has ordained we should meet on this auspicious day to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the splendid Omani Renaissance in Muscat.

Over the past three decades, the Renaissance has proved that its roots reach deep into the realities of this nation, its human heritage and its noble values. At the same time, it has also proved itself able to stay abreast of the time, keep pace with developments in different fields, use modern scientific achievements to help develop the community, and lay the foundations of a modern state that will enable the Omani people to realise their ambitions in a future full of light and hope and radiant with glory and honour a future that, God willing, promises greater stability, prosperity and abundance.

Dear citizens.  All of you are aware of the great part played by our armed forces and all the security services in creating Oman's modern Renaissance, in protecting its numerous achievements and in maintaining stability and security across the land. As we express our appreciation and our pride in all the prodigious tasks and demanding duties they perform, we ask Almighty God to enable us to provide them with further backing and support, so that they can continue to develop their potential and capabilities.

Greetings to you, valiant soldiers of Oman on this glorious day. Greetings, praise and honour for your magnificent role in serving Oman, in the past, in the present and God willing in the future. Greetings to you, dear citizens, on this happy anniversary. We pray that God will enable us to celebrate it again and again, with ever greater blessings, favours, gains and achievements. He has power when He wills. Our Lord 'Make this country peaceful, and feed its people with fruits. And be its guide and the one who helps it to victory.

May God grant you success. And may peace be upon you, and the mercy of God and His blessings.