ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia on Wednesday inked a landmark “Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement,” pledging that any aggression against either nation would be considered an attack on both, according to a joint statement issued in Riyadh.
The pact was signed during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s official visit to the Kingdom, undertaken at the invitation of Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
“Building on a historic partnership that has spanned nearly eight decades, and rooted in bonds of brotherhood, Islamic solidarity, and shared strategic interests, His Royal Highness Mohammed bin Salman and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif signed the ‘Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement’,” the statement said.
It further underlined that the accord reflects the shared commitment to strengthening defense cooperation, enhancing joint deterrence, and ensuring peace and stability in the region and beyond.
While both countries have long maintained close military and security ties, the agreement is seen as particularly significant amid heightened regional tensions. However, a Saudi official told Reuters the pact was not in reaction to any specific incident but rather an affirmation of enduring cooperation between Islamabad and Riyadh.
The defense partnership between the two nations has historically included the presence of Pakistani military trainers in the Kingdom, while Saudi Arabia has extended generous financial support to Pakistan during times of economic stress. The new pact represents a milestone in this longstanding relationship, highlighting renewed political and defense alignment.
The timing of the accord is notable, coming as both countries face evolving regional security challenges. It also signals Islamabad’s resolve to further solidify ties with Riyadh at both the political and military levels, while exploring avenues of deeper economic cooperation.
Prime Minister Shehbaz’s visit was marked by a series of high-profile engagements. His aircraft was escorted into Saudi airspace by Saudi Air Force jets in a rare gesture of honor. Later, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received him at the Al-Yamamah Palace, accompanied by Pakistan’s Army Chief, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir.
During the official talks, both sides reviewed the breadth of their strategic relationship and discussed matters of mutual interest. The Pakistani premier conveyed warm wishes for the health and well-being of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and the Crown Prince, while expressing gratitude for the Kingdom’s hospitality.
In turn, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman extended his good wishes for Pakistan’s leadership and prosperity, reaffirming the Kingdom’s commitment to its brotherly ties with Islamabad.
The signing of the defense pact marks a new chapter in Pakistan-Saudi relations, strengthening a partnership that has for decades stood as a pillar of security cooperation in the Islamic world.
