ISLAMABAD: The Commander of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Navy, Major General Hamid Mohammed Abdullah Al Rumaithi, met Pakistan’s top military leaders in Islamabad, where they discussed defence cooperation, regional security, and joint training. He was later awarded the Nishan-e-Imtiaz (Military) by President Asif Ali Zardari.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Major General Al Rumaithi called on Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Sahir Shamshad Mirza at the Joint Staff Headquarters. Both sides exchanged views on professional matters and the changing regional and global security environment. They highlighted the importance of bilateral defence ties and described maritime cooperation as vital for peace and stability in the region. The UAE commander received a guard of honour on his arrival.

He also met Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, where the two leaders discussed regional security, joint training, and ways to expand operational exercises. The Air Chief briefed him on Pakistan Air Force’s modernization drive, including upgrades in cyber, space, artificial intelligence, electronic warfare, and aerospace technologies.

Later, at a special ceremony in Aiwan-e-Sadr, President Zardari conferred the Nishan-e-Imtiaz (Military) on Major General Al Rumaithi in recognition of his services and support for Pakistan’s defence sector. The President said Pakistan and the UAE enjoy close brotherly relations and will continue to work together for regional peace and stability. He also praised the UAE’s participation in Peace Dialogue 25 and Exercise Aman 25.

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, former National Assembly Speaker Raja Pervez Ashraf, and former Senate Chairman Nayyar Bukhari were present at the ceremony.

During the visit, Major General Al Rumaithi recalled his graduation from the Pakistan Naval Academy in Karachi, calling Pakistan his “second home” and expressing pride in the strong ties between the two countries.

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