Ouagadougou: A government delegation delivers the President of Burkina Faso's message to the fighting forces. A government delegation stayed in Gaoua to convey to the Defense and Security Forces (FDS) and the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP) the message of the President of Faso, Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the government delegation, composed of the Minister of Trade, Industry and Handicrafts, Serge Gnaniodem Poda, the Minister of Sports, Youth and Employment, Anuuyirtole Roland Somda, and the Minister, Secretary General of the Government and the Council of Ministers, Ousmane Ouattara, met this Sunday in Gaoua with the Defense and Security Forces as well as the VDP of the Dj´r´ region.

On behalf of the President of Faso, Head of State, Captain Ibrahim Traore, and the Prime Minister, Head of Government, Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouedraogo, the mission came to deliver a message of recognition, encouragement and mobilization to the fighting forces engaged in the field.

According to Minister Serge Gnaniodem Poda, the Head of State's message revolves around three essential points. First, the expression of gratitude and congratulations from the President of Faso for the remarkable and life-saving work carried out by the FDS and the VDP in securing the national territory, the reconquest of several areas and the gradual resettlement of populations.

Then, the Head of State urged the fighting forces to remain vigilant, focused and resolutely committed to the objective of the total security of the national territory. He particularly urged them not to be distracted by propaganda, especially that disseminated by certain media outlets or through social networks, aimed at undermining the cohesion and effectiveness of the troops.

Finally, the message also included a special thought for the war wounded, to whom the President of Faso addressed his prayers and wishes for a speedy recovery, so that once healed, they can resume their place in the defense of the Homeland.

At the start of the new year, the Head of State expressed his wishes for health, peace, security and prosperity to the Defense and Security Forces, the VDP, as well as to the entire Burkinabe people.

Lieutenant-Colonel Farabe Gaston Kienou, commander of the 22nd RIC of Gaoua, assured that the message was well received and understood. "The message came at the right time; it reinforces the motivation and determination of the forces to continue the fight begun," he said.

On the sidelines of this meeting, the government delegation paid a courtesy visit to His Majesty Bifate II, chief of the canton of Gaoua, to whom they presented the objectives of the mission and sought blessings and advice. She also visited wounded soldiers at the BIR 15 infirmary, before going to the 22nd RIC for the meeting with the FDS and the VDP.

Through this action, the Government reaffirms its unwavering support for the fighting forces and its determination to work towards the lasting return of peace and security throughout the national territory.