Islamabad, Pakistan: His Excellency the President of Pakistan, Mr. Asif Ali Zardari, has conferred the prestigious "Hilal-e-Quaid-e-Azam" medal upon Mr. Sultan bin Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, the CEO of the Saudi Fund for Development.

This accolade recognizes the developmental endeavors spearheaded by the Saudi Fund for Development in bolstering vital sectors through project financing and developmental programs in Pakistan. This gesture underscores the enduring 48-year developmental partnership between the two nations.

The esteemed award, the "Hilal-e-Quaid-e-Azam," which translates to "Crescent of the Great Leader," is bestowed in recognition of outstanding contributions to the development and progress of Pakistan. It symbolizes the recipient's dedication to the principles and vision espoused by Pakistan's founding father, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

This accolade coincides with Mr. Sultan Al-Marshad's visit to Pakistan, during which he signed two developmental loan agreements worth $101 million with the Pakistani Ministry of Economic Affairs, facilitated by the Saudi Fund for Development. These agreements are integral to the Fund's efforts in supporting and advancing Pakistan's clean energy sector. Additionally, Mr. Al-Marshad held discussions with the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mr. Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif, on the sidelines of the visit.