Pakistan and Saudi Arabia sign major defense pact, vow joint response to attacks
Riyadh/Islamabad (The Uttam Hindu): Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed a historic defense agreement on Wednesday, called the "Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement." Under this agreement, any attack on one country will be considered an attack against both. This agreement will not only strengthen the military partnership between the two Islamic countries but can also impact regional security equations. This agreement was reached during Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif's visit to Saudi Arabia. The two countries issued a joint statement after a high-level meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at Al-Yamama Palace in Riyadh.
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia sign a major defense agreement with any attack on one country considered an attack on both: A statement issued by the Pakistani Prime Minister's Office said that this agreement is based on "brotherhood, Islamic unity and shared strategic interests." It also clarified that any external aggression will now be seen as an attack on both countries, not just one. Experts believe that this agreement signals a new strategic axis between West Asia and South Asia.
The joint statement stated that the agreement is not limited to deepening bilateral security ties. It also aims to contribute to regional and global peace. The two countries also agreed to develop joint deterrence capabilities, cooperate in the defense industry and work together against potential threats.
When Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif arrived in Riyadh, he was welcomed by Deputy Governor Muhammad bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz. He was accompanied by a senior delegation including Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, and Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb. Analysts believe the agreement is a major victory for Pakistan's foreign policy, especially at a time of increasing instability in regional politics.