ISLAMABAD, Monday, July 21, 2025 (WNP): President Asif Ali Zardari on Monday conferred the prestigious Nishan-i-Imtiaz (Military) upon Vice Admiral Mohammad Bin Abdul Rehman Al-Ghoraibi, Chief of the Royal Saudi Naval Forces in a landmark gesture reflecting the deep-rooted military ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

The high honour, one of Pakistan’s most distinguished military decorations, was awarded in recognition of Vice Admiral Al-Ghoraibi’s exceptional contributions to enhancing naval and defence cooperation between the two brotherly nations.

The award was presented during a special investiture ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Sadr, attended by Pakistan’s Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Nawaf Bin Saeed Al Malki, and senior officials from the Pakistan Armed Forces.

Following the ceremony, Vice Admiral Al-Ghoraibi called on President Zardari. During the meeting, the President lauded his efforts in fostering close collaboration between the Pakistan Navy and the Royal Saudi Naval Forces. He particularly appreciated Saudi participation in Exercise AMAN-25 and the AMAN Dialogue-25, held in February 2025, terming these joint initiatives instrumental in bolstering maritime security and regional cooperation.

President Zardari underscored the importance Pakistan places on its ties with Saudi Arabia, describing the Kingdom as a key partner and a trusted friend, especially during testing times. He commended the Kingdom’s visionary leadership under Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, which he said is steering Saudi Arabia towards transformation, progress, and prosperity.

Highlighting mutual trust in naval training systems, the President also stressed the need to further expand training cooperation between the two navies. He praised the Royal Saudi Naval Forces’ confidence in Pakistan Navy’s professional training standards.

In conclusion, President Zardari requested the visiting Saudi naval chief to convey his warm greetings and best wishes to King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, and Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, reaffirming Pakistan’s deep and enduring ties with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.