Saudi Arabia and Pakistan seal historic defence pact

Saudi Arabia and Pakistan have signed a landmark “Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement”, reinforcing a decades-long partnership and marking a new chapter in regional security cooperation.

Signed on Wednesday, the pact affirms that any act of aggression against one country will be regarded as aggression against both. Observers say the agreement brings together Saudi Arabia’s economic weight and Pakistan’s military strength, creating a robust framework for mutual defence and stability in the region.

Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif emphasised that the pact was purely defensive in nature. “We have no intention of using this arrangement for aggression,” he said. “But if either party is threatened, this agreement will become operative.” He added that the framework could be extended to cover other Gulf states, underscoring its potential for wider regional benefit.

Saudi officials highlighted that the agreement reflects Riyadh’s commitment to protecting the security of Arab nations and enhancing cooperation with key allies. A senior Saudi representative described the deal as “comprehensive”, ensuring preparedness across all military domains.

The pact also demonstrates growing trust between Riyadh and Islamabad, built on decades of close ties. Pakistan has long maintained a military presence in Saudi Arabia, and the new agreement expands this partnership to a strategic level. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif thanked Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for his “keen interest in expanding Saudi investments, trade and business ties”, linking the defence pact to broader economic cooperation.

Analysts view the agreement as a natural progression in Saudi–Pakistani relations. “Pakistan has the military capability and Saudi Arabia has the economic capacity – together this partnership offers strength and balance,” said Mushahid Hussain, a former chairman of Pakistan’s Senate defence committee.

The accord comes at a time when Gulf nations seek stronger regional partnerships to ensure long-term stability and protection. For Pakistan, the agreement enhances its international role, while for Saudi Arabia it provides an additional layer of reassurance as it pursues peace and stability across the Arab world.