RIYADH: Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey signed a landmark Joint Defence Agreement in Makkah on Friday, marking a significant step toward strengthening regional security, military cooperation, and collective defence among the three countries.
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According to a statement issued by Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the agreement was signed during the Makkah Al-Mukarramah Summit for Joint Defence, held under the invitation of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. The summit brought together Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, and Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar described the signing of the agreement as a historic moment, noting that it took place within the vicinity of the Holy Kaaba, highlighting the significance of the event for the Muslim world.
The joint statement issued after the summit said the agreement was founded on the historical ties, Islamic brotherhood, strategic interests, and longstanding defence cooperation shared by Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing regional peace, security, and stability while promoting closer military coordination.
A key feature of the agreement is the principle of collective defence. Under the pact, any armed attack against one of the three signatory states will be regarded as an attack against all, reflecting their commitment to mutual security and coordinated responses to regional threats.
The agreement also outlines plans to expand cooperation in various defence sectors, including military training, intelligence sharing, defence technology, joint exercises, and strategic planning. Officials believe the pact will strengthen the collective deterrence capabilities of the three nations while contributing to long-term regional stability.
During the summit, the three leaders reviewed bilateral and trilateral relations and discussed key regional and international developments. They emphasized the importance of continued collaboration in addressing common security challenges and promoting peace through dialogue and strategic partnerships.
The defence agreement comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Pakistan has actively supported diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions following the US-Iran conflict, while Turkey has played a leading role in mediation initiatives related to the Gaza crisis. Saudi Arabia continues to advocate regional stability through diplomatic engagement.
The latest agreement further deepens defence ties among the three countries, building upon previous security cooperation initiatives. Analysts believe the partnership could play an increasingly important role in shaping regional security architecture, enhancing military collaboration, and addressing emerging strategic challenges facing the Muslim world and the broader region.
