Saudi Arabia and Pakistan Forge Mutual Defence Pact

In a significant development in international relations, Saudi Arabia has formalized a mutual defence agreement with Pakistan, a nation known for its nuclear capabilities. This pact, announced through state media from both countries, marks a deepening of the longstanding security alliance that has characterized the relationship between the two nations for decades.

The Essence of the Agreement

The mutual defence pact asserts that any military aggression against either Saudi Arabia or Pakistan will be viewed as an attack on both countries. A joint statement released on Wednesday highlighted that the agreement aims to enhance security cooperation and establish a joint deterrence strategy against potential threats. “This agreement reflects the shared commitment of both nations to enhance their security and achieve peace in the region and the world,” the statement read, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

A senior Saudi official elaborated on the nature of the agreement, indicating that it is the culmination of years of discussions and is not a reaction to any specific country or incident. “This is an institutionalization of longstanding and deep cooperation between our two countries,” the official told Reuters, emphasizing the thoughtful consideration that has gone into the agreement’s timing.

High-Level Discussions

The announcement of the mutual defence pact coincided with a meeting in Riyadh between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. During this meeting, the two leaders explored ways to enhance their strategic partnership across various sectors, reflecting the close ties and shared interests of their nations.

The timing of the agreement is particularly noteworthy, as it follows a recent joint session of the Arab League and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). This session was convened in response to escalating tensions following Israel’s military actions in the region, including an attack on the Qatari capital, Doha, on September 9. The attack targeted members of Hamas’s political leadership who were discussing a US-backed ceasefire proposal, prompting widespread condemnation from Arab and Islamic nations.

Comprehensive Defence Strategy

The mutual defence agreement is described as comprehensive, covering all military means necessary to protect both nations. When asked whether the pact includes provisions for the potential use of Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal, the senior Saudi official confirmed that the agreement encompasses a broad range of military capabilities. This aspect of the pact underscores the seriousness with which both nations view their security needs in a volatile regional landscape.

The relationship between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan has historically been rooted in mutual interests and cooperation. Since 1967, Pakistan has trained over 8,200 personnel from the Saudi armed forces, and the two countries have conducted numerous joint military exercises, reinforcing their military collaboration.

Acknowledging Regional Dynamics

While the agreement with Pakistan strengthens Saudi Arabia’s security framework, the senior Saudi official also took the opportunity to reaffirm the kingdom’s robust relationship with India, another nuclear-armed nation. This statement comes in the context of ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan, which have included military confrontations, such as a brief war in May.

“Our relationship with India is more robust than it has ever been,” the official stated, indicating that Saudi Arabia seeks to contribute positively to regional peace through its diplomatic engagements with both countries.

Historical Context of Saudi-Pakistani Relations

The ties between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan date back several decades, characterized by strong trade and military cooperation. The two nations have often found common ground in their strategic interests, particularly in the context of regional security and geopolitical stability. The recent mutual defence pact is a testament to the enduring nature of this partnership.

As Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif continues his state visit to Saudi Arabia, the implications of this mutual defence agreement will likely resonate throughout the region. The pact not only reinforces the bilateral relationship between the two countries but also signals a collective stance on security issues that may impact the broader geopolitical landscape.

Conclusion

The signing of the mutual defence pact between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan represents a significant milestone in their bilateral relations, reflecting a shared commitment to security and stability in a complex regional context. As both nations navigate their strategic interests amidst evolving international dynamics, this agreement may play a crucial role in shaping future interactions within the region.

Key Facts

– Saudi Arabia and Pakistan have signed a mutual defence pact.
– The agreement states that any aggression against either country will be considered an attack on both.
– The pact is a culmination of years of discussions and reflects longstanding cooperation.
– The announcement coincided with a meeting between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
– The agreement includes provisions for comprehensive military cooperation, potentially involving Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities.
– Saudi Arabia maintains a strong relationship with India, despite its partnership with Pakistan.

Source: www.aljazeera.com