General Mirza Honored by Saudi Arabia
Islamabad/Riyadh: Pakistan’s Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, has been awarded Saudi Arabia’s highest civilian and military honor, the King Abdulaziz Medal of Honor, in recognition of his contributions to regional security and bilateral defense cooperation.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), General Mirza recently visited Saudi Arabia, where he held high-level talks with the Chief of General Staff of the Saudi Armed Forces. Discussions focused on global and regional security challenges, strengthening defense collaboration, and deepening the longstanding strategic partnership between the two countries.
Recognition of Professionalism and Sacrifice
During the visit, Saudi officials praised the professional expertise of the Pakistani military and highlighted the sacrifices made by Pakistan’s armed forces in combating terrorism. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further enhance military cooperation and joint training initiatives.
The King Abdulaziz Medal of Honor is among Saudi Arabia’s most distinguished awards, given to individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, service, or contributions to defense and bilateral relations. Its conferral on General Mirza reflects Pakistan’s prominent role in regional security and its close military ties with Riyadh.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Military cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia has historically included joint exercises, defense training programs, and technology sharing. Analysts suggest that such visits and honors reinforce strategic trust and provide opportunities to coordinate on counterterrorism and regional stability efforts.
The award highlights not only General Mirza’s personal achievements but also the enduring partnership between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, which spans decades and continues to evolve amid shifting regional dynamics.
