In a notable demonstration of the strong military collaboration between Pakistan and Australia, Cadet Sardar Arsam Abbas from the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) has been awarded the title of ‘Overall Best Foreign Military Cadet’ at the Royal Military College (RMC) Duntroon in Australia. This prestigious recognition was bestowed during a graduation parade held in Canberra on Monday.
The award, which recognizes the highest-achieving international trainee across physical, academic, and leadership criteria, underscores Cadet Abbas’s exceptional performance throughout the demanding program. This achievement was officially confirmed by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of Pakistan’s military, on Wednesday.
Notably, this marks the 14th occasion on which a Pakistani cadet has earned this distinguished honor at RMC Duntroon, one of Australia’s foremost officer training institutions. This consistent success reflects the rigorous standards upheld by the Pakistan Military Academy and the effective integration of its cadets into international military education settings.
Since 2009, a total of 46 Pakistani cadets have graduated from RMC Duntroon, highlighting a decade-long partnership characterized by extensive exchange programs and professional cooperation. Beyond cadet training, this bilateral relationship includes the contribution of seven Pakistan Army officers who have served as platoon commanders at the Australian academy since 2013, sharing their expertise with both local and international trainees.
Meanwhile, the military community also paid homage to the late Lt. Nasir Hussain Khalid Sehrai, a former recipient of the same award. Lt. Sehrai, who lost his life during counter-terrorism operations in North Waziristan in 2020, is commemorated at RMC Duntroon with his name engraved on a memorial stone at the parade ground. This tribute symbolizes the shared commitment to sacrifice and service that binds the two nations.
