ISLAMABAD – President Asif Ali Zardari on Thursday conferred Pakistan’s highest civil and military awards on political leaders, senior officers, and diplomats in a ceremony at the Presidency.
The prestigious awards were given to recognize exceptional services in national defense, governance, and diplomacy. The event brought together figures from politics, the armed forces, and the diplomatic corps.
Political leaders receive Nishan-e-Imtiaz
Several prominent political leaders were honoured with the Nishan-e-Imtiaz, one of Pakistan’s top civilian awards. Recipients included Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Federal Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Information Minister Atta Tarar, Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari.
Field Marshal Asim Munir awarded Hilal-e-Jurat
Pakistan’s top military commanders also received high honours for their service. Field Marshal Asim Munir was awarded the Hilal-e-Jurat in recognition of his leadership and contributions. Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu also received the same honour.
Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Sahir Shamshad Mirza and Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf were decorated with the Nishan-e-Imtiaz (Military). Other senior officials, including Vice Admiral Raja Rab Nawaz, Rear Admiral Abdul Muneeb, and Rear Admiral Faisal Amin, were also awarded.
ISI Director General Lt Gen Muhammad Asim Malik was honoured with the Sitara-e-Basalat, while ISPR Director General Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry received the Hilal-e-Imtiaz (Military).
Diplomats and ministers honoured
Several members of Pakistan’s diplomatic team were awarded the Hilal-e-Imtiaz for strengthening foreign relations. The recipients included Tariq Fatemi, Senator Sherry Rehman, Senator Faisal Sabzwari, Hina Rabbani Khar, Khurram Dastgir Khan, Jalil Abbas Jilani, and Attorney General Mansoor Usman Awan.
Valour awards for armed forces
The President also conferred gallantry awards on Pakistan Air Force officers and Army personnel. Several were awarded the Sitara-e-Jurat and Tamgha-e-Jurat, with some honours given posthumously to martyrs.
Recognition across civil service
In addition to political and military leaders, civil servants, police officials, and administrators were also recognised. Prime Minister’s Speechwriter Rashid Mahmood Malik received the Sitara-e-Imtiaz, while Rescue 1122 DG Dr Rizwan Nazir and multiple district officials were among the awardees.
The ceremony highlighted Pakistan’s tradition of honouring individuals who contribute to the nation’s defense, governance, and public service. Field Marshal Asim Munir’s recognition reflected the government’s appreciation of the armed forces’ role in safeguarding national security.
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