Possibility open for Arab nations to enter Pak-Saudi defence agreement: Khawaja Asif

Defense Minister Khawaja Asif said that under the newly signed defence agreement, any attack on Pakistan or Saudi Arabia would be considered an attack on both, with the two countries bound to respond together.

He described the pact as a milestone for regional security, one that has elevated Pakistan’s standing on the global stage. However, he cautioned that it is still too soon to say whether other Arab nations will come on board with the alliance.

Meanwhile in London, Federal Information Minister Atta Tarar praised the country’s diplomatic track record over the past 18 months, calling the pact a “matter of pride” as it also carries the honor of safeguarding the Two Holy Mosques.

The landmark “Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement” (SMDA) was signed a day earlier in Riyadh by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif.

The accord underscores the two nations’ commitment to deepening defense cooperation and ensuring collective security against any act of aggression. Officials emphasized that beyond bilateral ties, the agreement reflects a shared vision for peace and stability in the wider region and beyond.