PARIS – The French government has awarded Saudi Ambassador to France Dr. Khalid Bin Muhammad Al-Anqari the "National Merit with the rank of Senior Officer" in recognition of his efforts to support and strengthen relations between the Kingdom and France.

The medal was handed over to Al-Anqari by Christophe Varno, director general of the Middle East and North Africa Department on behalf of President Emmanuel Macron, during a farewell ceremony held for Al-Anqari to mark the end of his tenure as Kingdom’s ambassador to France.

The ceremony was attended by a number of French officials.

Christophe Varno lauded the big role carried out by Ambassador Al-Anqari in strengthening, supporting and developing relations between the two friendly countries in all aspects.

Al-Anqari expressed gratitude for the honor he has been bestowed by the French government by decorating him with the prestigious medal, which reflects the strong historic and strategic relations between the Kingdom and France, under the support and care of Custodian of the Two Mosques King Salman, Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman and President Macron and his government.

Al-Anqari also expressed deep thanks to all the French officials, who showed great cooperation in facilitating his mission during the years of his work.

Anqari was appointed ambassador to France in February 2016, with the goal of increasing bilateral ties with the country focusing on promoting tourism in Saudi Arabia, developing ties for higher education and research exchange, and strengthening counter terrorism ties.

Al-Anqari placed an emphasis on cultural and artistic exchanges by promoting events such as the MiSK Art exposition at the World Heritage Center in paris, participating in the Salon of Books in Paris, and organizing a Saudi art exposition at the Young International Artists art fair. — SPA