Saudi Arabia`s Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz (R) presents Chief of Defense Forces (CDF) and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir with the King Abdulaziz Medal of Excellent Class.

Saudi Arabia`s Minister of Defense, Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, has conferred the King Abdulaziz Medal on Pakistan`s Chief of Defense Forces and Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir, in recognition of his efforts to strengthen Saudi-Pakistani relations and enhance defense cooperation.

According to the Saudi media, the medal was awarded following a royal directive from King Salman during a ceremony held at the defense minister`s office in Riyadh on Sunday.

The King Abdulaziz Medal, which has several classes, is among the kingdom`s highest national honors and is bestowed on individuals who have rendered outstanding services to Saudi Arabia.

The award recognizes Field Marshal Munir`s distinguished role in advancing strategic cooperation, developing bilateral relations, and promoting joint defense collaboration between the two countries.

Saudi Gazette noted that the honor was granted for his efforts to strengthen the strategic relationship and institutional cooperation between Riyadh and Islamabad.

During the meeting, Prince Khalid congratulated Field Marshal Munir on his appointment as Pakistan`s chief of defense forces and wished him continued success.

In November, Munir officially took over as the Chief of Defense Forces (CDF) alongside his existing role as Chief of Army Staff (COAS), marking the first time in the country`s history that a single officer holds both positions.

The two sides reviewed the longstanding historical ties between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan and discussed defense and military cooperation, regional security dynamics, evolving geopolitical challenges, and efforts to promote international peace and security.

In a post on his X account, Prince Khalid said the medal was presented in recognition of Field Marshal Munir`s "distinguished efforts to enhance cooperation and advance Saudi-Pakistani relations."

Pakistan`s military media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), said the interaction reaffirmed the deep-rooted, historic, and brotherly relations between the two countries.

It added that the honor reflects Field Marshal Munir`s leadership and contributions toward regional peace and stability, including sustained cooperation in counterterrorism and security.

The award comes amid growing defense cooperation between the two countries. Earlier this year, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed a Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement, pledging mutual support in the event of aggression against either state.

Both sides have repeatedly expressed their intent to further elevate defense and strategic ties.