National Security Minister Carmelo Abela this morning urged AFM officers to consider their work within the army as a career.

The government was investing in the army’s human resources, Mr Abela said, referring to Budget measures that propose doubling soldiers' allowance.

Meanwhile, €1 million have been pledged for training in Malta and abroad, Mr Abela said during a visit to an exhibition at the Valletta Waterfront set up by former soldiers and officers who are still serving in the army.

Flanked by Brigadier Jeffrey Curmi, Mr Abela told the media that the government’s aim was to modernise the AFM, and the ministry was carrying out an internal exercise to draw up a 10-year strategy.

The exhibition forms part of the army’s 45th anniversary celebrations that will include an open day tomorrow at Pinto Wharf four and five between 2pm and 11pm.

Apart from a display of helicopters, vessels and weapons, there will also be stands providing information to those interested in joining the army.

During Mass celebrated this morning as part of the celebrations, Archbishop Charles Scicluna thanked the soldiers for saving lives at sea.