LYON, France, 12th September, 2025 – In a historic ceremony at INTERPOL Headquarters in Lyon, Major General Dr. Ahmed Nasser Al-Raisi, President of the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL), awarded President Umaro Sissoco Embaló of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau the INTERPOL Medal of the Highest Order. With this esteemed recognition, President Embaló becomes the first African Head of State both to receive this prestigious honor and to visit INTERPOL’s headquarters since its founding over a century ago.
The INTERPOL Medal of the Highest Order stands as the organization’s highest level of distinction for Heads of State and international leaders. Bestowed upon those who demonstrate outstanding contributions to global security cooperation, the award recognizes significant efforts in combating organized and transnational crime, terrorism, and cyber threats. President Embaló’s achievements in reinforcing effective security partnerships and enhancing joint policing measures have contributed to this momentous recognition, underscoring the growing role of Guinea-Bissau in promoting collaborative security strategies.
During the award ceremony, Dr. Al-Raisi remarked:
“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.”
In response, President Umaro Sissoco Embaló shared his pride, stating:
“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 this recognition motivates Guinea-Bissau to deepen its commitment to international cooperation, and to build partnerships worldwide under the umbrella of INTERPOL, in order to tackle shared security challenges and protect societies from all forms of crime.
The awarding of the INTERPOL Medal of the Highest Order to President Embaló sets a significant historic precedent, reinforcing Africa’s presence and active role in the international security landscape.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
