Pakistan, Saudi Arabia Sign Mutual Defence Pact
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed a new strategic defence pact on Wednesday, with the two sides saying an attack on one country would be considered "an aggression against both".
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- From: India News Bull
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia formalized a strategic defence agreement on Wednesday, with both nations declaring that an attack against one would be considered "an aggression against both".
The signing took place between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
This significant defence pact comes shortly after an Israeli military operation targeting Hamas leadership in Qatar, which has raised serious security concerns among Gulf states traditionally relying on U.S. protection.
According to the Saudi Press Agency statement, "This agreement aims to enhance defence cooperation between the two countries and strengthen joint deterrence capabilities against any potential aggression."
The statement emphasized that "any aggression against either country shall be considered an aggression against both."
The timing of this defence agreement is notable, following a severe four-day conflict between Pakistan and India in May that resulted in over 70 casualties on both sides through missile, drone and artillery exchanges, marking the most serious confrontation between the nuclear-armed neighbors since 1999.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was visiting Saudi Arabia in April when he abruptly shortened his trip following a deadly attack on tourists in India that triggered the subsequent conflict.
Saudi Arabia is believed to have played a significant diplomatic role in de-escalating tensions between the two nations.
The kingdom maintains substantial economic relationships with India, serving as its third-largest petroleum supplier according to India's foreign ministry, supporting the rapidly growing economy of the world's most populous nation.
Pakistan has maintained strong ties with Saudi Arabia for decades, with approximately 2.5 million Pakistani nationals living and working in the kingdom.
Saudi Arabia has historically provided crucial economic support to Pakistan during periods of financial instability.