LYON, France, 12th September, 2025 (WAM) - Major General Dr. Ahmed Nasser Al-Raisi, President of the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL), decorated President Umaro Sissoco Embalo, President of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, with the INTERPOL Medal of the Highest Order, making him the first African Head of State to receive this prestigious honour.

This recognition came during a historic visit by President Embalo to the INTERPOL's HQ in Lyon, making him also the first African Head of State to visit INTERPOL headquarters since its establishment more than a century ago.

The medal represents the highest level of distinction granted by INTERPOL - which today has 196 member countries - to Heads of State and international leaders in acknowledgment of their outstanding role in strengthening global security cooperation, combating organized and transnational crime, terrorism, and cyber threats. It reflects international recognition of President Embalo's contributions to advancing regional and international security efforts, reinforcing effective partnerships to address contemporary security challenges, and highlighting the growing role of Guinea-Bissau as a key supporter of joint policing efforts.

In his remarks during the ceremony, Dr. Al-Raisi affirmed that this milestone represents "global appreciation for Africa through the honouring of one of its distinguished leaders, and embodies INTERPOL's commitment to working with all member countries to build a more effective global security architecture."

For his part, President Embalo expressed his deep pride in this historic recognition, saying: "The INTERPOL Medal of the Highest Order is not only a personal honour, but also a tribute to Africa and its pivotal role in safeguarding international peace and security."

He added that the medal provides further motivation for Guinea-Bissau to continue its commitment to strengthening international cooperation and building bridges of partnership with countries around the world under the umbrella of INTERPOL, in order to address common security challenges and protect societies from all forms of crime.

INTERPOL grants its Medal of the Highest Order to prominent leaders and international figures in recognition of their exceptional contributions to global security, making this event a historic precedent that reinforces Africa's presence and active role in the international security landscape.