Abu Dhabi: SiltaNews – News Desk
His Excellency Major General Dr. Ahmed Nasser Al Raisi, President of the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL), presented His Excellency Umaro Sissoco Embalo, President of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, with the “Interpol High Class Medal”, making him the first African head of state to receive this high honor. This coronation came during a historic visit by His Excellency President Embalo to the organization’s headquarters in Lyon, making him the first African head of state to visit Interpol’s headquarters since its founding more than a century ago.
This medal is the highest honor bestowed by the organization, which comprises 196 member states, on heads of state and international figures in recognition of their prominent role in strengthening global security cooperation and combating organized and transnational crime, terrorism, and cyber challenges. It embodies international recognition of President Embalo’s contributions to supporting regional and international security efforts and fostering effective partnerships to address contemporary security challenges, as well as Guinea-Bissau’s growing status as a key supporter of joint police action.
In his speech at the award ceremony, Major General Dr. Ahmed Nasser Al Raisi emphasized that this milestone represents a global recognition of Africa by honoring one of its distinguished leaders, and embodies INTERPOL’s commitment to working with all member states to build a more effective security system. For his part, President Umaro Sissoco Embaló expressed his deep pride in this historic recognition, saying: “The INTERPOL High Class Medal is not only a personal honor, but also a tribute to Africa and its pivotal role in safeguarding global security and stability.”
He added that this award represents an additional incentive for Guinea-Bissau to continue its commitment to strengthening international cooperation and building bridges of partnership with various countries around the world under the umbrella of INTERPOL, in order to confront common security challenges and protect people from all forms of crime. It’s worth noting that INTERPOL awards its highest-class medal to prominent figures and heads of state in recognition of their outstanding contributions to collective security. This event marks a historic first, enhancing Africa’s presence and active role in the international security landscape.