Riyadh: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have signed a historic Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement, pledging that any aggression against one nation will be treated as an attack on both.
The pact was finalised during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s state visit to Riyadh. At Al-Yamamah Palace, he was warmly welcomed by Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman.
According to a joint statement, the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement builds on nearly eight decades of partnership. It rests on brotherhood, Islamic unity, and shared security interests. The two nations vowed to expand defence cooperation, boost deterrence, and contribute to regional as well as global peace.
The most crucial aspect of the pact is its binding clause. It makes clear that aggression against one country will be considered aggression against both.
The signing comes only days after Israel carried out strikes towards Qatar, targeting Hamas leaders in Doha. The action drew sharp criticism from Muslim nations and global leaders.
Experts have hailed the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement as an “unprecedented step” in the history of Pakistan–Saudi ties. While Pakistan has joined defence pacts before, this accord is unique because of its binding nature. Analysts stressed that the agreement elevates the partnership into a formal security commitment.
Observers believe the move strengthens ties with Riyadh and boosts Pakistan’s role in the Islamic world. They argue that the accord positions Pakistan as the most capable Muslim power to ensure regional stability.
The timing of the pact was also highlighted by analysts. They linked it to growing unrest in the region, Israeli attacks, the Doha summit, and increasing concerns in the Arab world over sovereignty. They noted that Saudi Arabia’s trust in Pakistan as its most dependable ally is now clearer than ever.
During his visit, PM Shehbaz expressed deep gratitude to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for his generous hospitality. He extended warm wishes for King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, the crown prince, and the Saudi people. He prayed for their continued progress and prosperity.
In return, King Salman sent heartfelt greetings for the well-being of the Pakistani premier and conveyed his best wishes for the people of Pakistan.
Several key figures were present at the high-level meeting. These included Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, and Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb.
The prime minister’s arrival in Riyadh carried full ceremonial honours. As his special aircraft entered Saudi airspace, Royal Saudi Air Force F-15 jets escorted the flight in a rare gesture of welcome.
Upon landing at King Khalid International Airport, a 21-gun salute echoed across Riyadh. Smart contingents of the Saudi armed forces presented a guard of honour. Deputy Governor of Riyadh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz personally received the premier. Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Nawaf bin Saeed Al-Maliki, Pakistani Ambassador Ahmed Farooq, and senior diplomats also attended.
Throughout the city, green crescent flags of Pakistan waved proudly along the motorcade route. Onboard the special flight, PM Shehbaz thanked the Saudi leadership for the aerial escort and reaffirmed Pakistan’s appreciation for the warm reception.
