ISLAMABAD: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has indicated that while it’s too early to discuss the participation of additional countries in the newly signed strategic defence pact between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, the option remains open.
Asif explained that the agreement stipulates mutual defence obligations — meaning if either Pakistan or Saudi Arabia is attacked, it will be considered an attack on both, prompting a collective response.
He further stated that this bilateral agreement has bolstered Pakistan’s international standing. Although the inclusion of other nations is not currently under active discussion, he clarified that there are no restrictions preventing future expansion of the pact.
In a separate media interaction in London, Federal Information Minister Atta Tarar praised Pakistan’s recent diplomatic progress, stating that the country’s foreign policy has seen notable achievements over the last 18 months. He also highlighted the honour of Pakistan playing a role in the protection of Islam’s holiest sites in Saudi Arabia, calling it a matter of national pride.
The Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (SMDA) was officially signed a day earlier by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
The pact underscores a unified commitment by both nations to strengthen their security cooperation and promote peace and stability across the region and globally. It aims to deepen defence collaboration and reinforce joint measures against any potential threats or aggression.
