Saudi Arabia has awarded its highest national honor, the King Abdulaziz Medal of the Excellent Class, to Pakistan’s Chief of Defense Forces, Field Marshal Asim Munir, during his official visit to Riyadh. The award underscores the deepening strategic and military cooperation between the two nations, including enhanced coordination on counterterrorism and regional security.
Background: Strengthening Pakistan-Saudi Relations
The conferral of the medal follows months after Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman signed a defense pact with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, highlighting the long-standing strategic partnership between the countries. Pakistan has historically supported Saudi Arabia in security, defense, and economic cooperation, including providing assurances of support for the protection of the Islamic holy sites in Mecca and Medina.
In September 2025, Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Mohammad Asif stated that the nation’s nuclear program could be made available to Saudi Arabia if required under the new defense pact, reflecting the depth of strategic collaboration.
Asim Munir’s Role and Military Achievements
Munir’s visit to Saudi Arabia marks his first official tour since his promotion to Pakistan’s newly established post of Chief of Defense Forces, which aims to enhance coordination among the army, navy, and air force.
Earlier this year, Munir gained prominence following Pakistan’s reported repelling of Indian strikes during a four-day border conflict in May 2025. The confrontation involved tit-for-tat strikes between the nuclear-armed rivals, triggered by an Indian operation targeting militants in Pakistan, which New Delhi linked to attacks in Kashmir. The conflict subsided after US President Donald Trump announced a full ceasefire between the two nations.
Strategic Discussions and Defense Cooperation
During his meetings with Saudi officials, Munir and his counterparts discussed:
- Regional security and defense coordination
- Military cooperation and joint exercises
- Strategic collaboration on evolving geopolitical challenges
Pakistan’s military emphasized that the award highlights the shared determination of both nations to strengthen strategic cooperation and advance regional and global peace. Saudi leaders praised Munir’s professionalism, strategic vision, and leadership in enhancing bilateral defense relations.
Historical Context of Pakistan-Saudi Ties
Saudi Arabia and Pakistan have maintained close economic, religious, and defense ties for decades. The Kingdom has provided financial assistance to Pakistan, helping it manage foreign debt crises, while Islamabad has committed to supporting Saudi Arabia in safeguarding its key Islamic sites. The defense pact and the awarding of the medal further reinforce Pakistan’s role as a strategic partner in the Gulf region.
Munir’s Statement
Field Marshal Munir expressed gratitude for the honor, describing it as a reflection of the enduring Pakistan-Saudi partnership. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the Kingdom’s security, stability, and prosperity, emphasizing the shared historical and cultural bonds between the two nations.
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