Saudi Arabia's Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz decorated Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir with the King Abdulaziz Medal of Excellent Class on the Decree of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
In a statement released on Monday, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) described it as the kingdom's "highest national honour".
The ISPR said COAS Munir met Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Defence, during an official visit to the kingdom, and the meeting covered matters of mutual interest, including defence and military cooperation, strategic collaboration and "evolving geopolitical challenges".
The interaction, it added, reaffirmed the “deep-rooted, historic, and brotherly relations” between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
According to ISPR, the honour recognises Field Marshal Munir's military service and leadership and his role in advancing defence cooperation, strategic coordination and institutional linkages between the two countries.
It said the award also reflects his contributions towards "regional peace and stability”, including sustained collaboration in “counter-terrorism and security”.
The military's media wing further said that the Saudi leadership conveyed its appreciation for CDF Munir’s professionalism and strategic outlook, noting his commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.
It added that the army chief expressed gratitude to King Salman and the Saudi leadership for the honour, describing it as a reflection of the “enduring bonds” between the two countries, and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the kingdom’s security, stability and prosperity.
