President of the UAE presents Order of the Union to Pakistan's army chief

President Sheikh Mohamed presents the Order of the Union medal to Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, Chief of Army Staff of Pakistan, left, during a Sea Palace barza. All images: UAE Presidential Court

The Order of the Union is the second highest honour awarded by the UAE to senior officials of friendly nations.

The award was given in recognition of Gen Bajwa's distinguished efforts in strengthening UAE-Pakistan's ties.

The Order of the Union medal presented to Pakistan's army chief.

Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Presidential Court, left, and Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed, member of Abu Dhabi Executive Council and chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Office, right, at the Sea Palace barza.

Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed, vice chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, right, and Sheikh Suroor bin Mohamed.

Sheikh Mohamed speaks with Sheikh Tahnoon bin Mohamed, Ruler's representative in Al Ain Region.

President Sheikh Mohamed on Tuesday presented the Order of the Union to Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, Pakistan's chief of the army staff, during a reception held at Qasr Al Bahr Majlis.

The award was given in recognition of Gen Bajwa's "distinguished efforts in strengthening UAE-Pakistan ties and his role in consolidating bilateral co-operation between the two friendly countries", news agency Wam reported.

The Order of the Union is the second-highest honour awarded by the UAE to senior officials of friendly nations.

During the meeting, the pair discussed bilateral co-operation and joint action in areas of defence to serve mutual interests.

They also exchanged views on the latest regional and global issues and developments of mutual concern.

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed spoke about the deep, longstanding relations between the UAE and Pakistan and the mutual keenness to continue strengthening them at various levels.

He appreciated efforts made by Gen Bajwa to develop prospects for co-operation and joint work between the two countries.

Gen Bajwa expressed his thanks and appreciation to the UAE president and spoke of his pride in receiving the honour, which he said reflects the strength of the friendly relations. He said his country is keen to develop and advance its co-operation with the UAE.