Pakistan, Saudi Arabia sign strategic defense pact during Shehbaz Sharif’s Riyadh visit

APP

Riyadh: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia on Tuesday signed a Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s state visit to the Kingdom, a move both sides said would deepen security cooperation and strengthen deterrence in the region.

Sharif, who arrived in Riyadh at the invitation of Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, was received at Al-Yamamah Palace, where official talks were held in the presence of both countries’ delegations.

Defense pact signed

The agreement, described as the centrepiece of the visit, commits the two countries to closer defense collaboration and mutual support in the event of external aggression. Officials said it reflects a shared intent to bolster regional security while reinforcing a strategic partnership that spans nearly eight decades.

“The pact underscores our resolve to enhance cooperation in security and defense,” the two leaders said in a joint statement, adding that any aggression against one country would be considered aggression against both.

Strengthening bilateral ties

During the talks, the delegations reviewed historic political, economic, and defense relations, as well as regional and international developments of common interest.

Sharif conveyed greetings to King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and thanked Saudi leadership for the warm reception and hospitality extended to him and his delegation. He also expressed his best wishes for the continued prosperity of the Saudi people.

The Crown Prince, in turn, extended good wishes for Pakistan’s stability and development.

Longstanding partnership

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have maintained close relations grounded in shared faith, economic cooperation, and defense ties. Over the years, Riyadh has been a key trade and investment partner for Islamabad and has provided significant financial assistance during times of economic difficulty.