MILITARY

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir has been honoured with Azerbaijan’s prestigious Patriotic War Medal, the military’s media wing announced on Wednesday. The award was presented by Azerbaijan’s Defence Minister, Colonel General Karim Valiyev, during a visit to the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the medal was conferred on behalf of Azerbaijani President Illham Aliyev in recognition of COAS Munir’s “exceptional contributions in the field of military cooperation” between Pakistan and Azerbaijan.
Established on May 17, 2002, the Patriotic War Medal is a state award granted to both Azerbaijani servicemen and foreign nationals for their role in strengthening military cooperation with the Azerbaijani Armed Forces.
During the meeting, both leaders discussed matters of mutual interest, with a special focus on the prevailing global and regional security landscape. Gen Valiyev praised Pakistan’s role in combating terrorism and reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s commitment to enhancing defence and security cooperation.
COAS Munir expressed Pakistan’s deep fraternal ties with Azerbaijan and pledged to further consolidate bilateral relations. He also congratulated Azerbaijan on the successful conclusion of its peace agreement with Armenia.
Upon his arrival, the Azerbaijani defence chief was presented with a guard of honour. ISPR further noted that Valiyev lauded the Pakistan Army’s professionalism and extended greetings for Pakistan’s upcoming Independence Day. COAS Munir, in turn, thanked Azerbaijan for its solidarity during Marka-i-Haq and for sending a contingent to participate in Pakistan’s Independence Day ceremony.
Pakistan and Azerbaijan have maintained robust defence ties, with COAS Munir visiting Baku in 2023 to further strengthen military cooperation. Last year, Azerbaijan also signed a landmark $1.6 billion agreement with Pakistan to acquire JF-17 Block III fighter jets, jointly developed by Pakistan Aeronautical Complex and China’s Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group.
The ceremony marks yet another milestone in the strategic partnership between the two nations, underscoring their shared commitment to regional peace and stability.