RIYADH — In a landmark development, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have formalized a “Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement”, pledging that any attack on either nation will be treated as aggression against both. The agreement was signed on Wednesday during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at Riyadh’s Yamama Palace.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the pact reflects the two countries’ shared resolve to strengthen joint deterrence, enhance security cooperation, and work together for peace in the region and beyond. It emphasized that the agreement builds on nearly eight decades of close partnership rooted in Islamic solidarity, strategic cooperation, and deep defence ties.
The PMO statement noted that both delegations discussed a wide range of bilateral issues, reaffirming the historic bond between Islamabad and Riyadh. Prime Minister Shehbaz expressed gratitude to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for his warm hospitality and conveyed his best wishes for King Salman and the people of Saudi Arabia. In return, the crown prince extended warm wishes to Shehbaz Sharif and praised the enduring friendship between the two nations.
The visit carried strong symbolic gestures as well. When the prime minister’s aircraft entered Saudi airspace, it was escorted by Saudi Air Force jets a move described as a mark of “brotherly respect and solidarity.” Upon arrival, PM Shehbaz was received with a guard of honour, underscoring the importance Riyadh attaches to its ties with Islamabad.
The Pakistani delegation included Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Environment Minister Musadik Malik, and Special Assistant to PM Tariq Fatemi.
Officials said the pact is expected to open new avenues of cooperation, not only in defence but also across trade, energy, and investment, further cementing the relationship between the two nations. Analysts believe the agreement strengthens Pakistan’s strategic depth while reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to regional stability.
The signing marks a significant step in the evolving partnership between the two long-time allies, sending a clear message that Islamabad and Riyadh stand united against any threat to their sovereignty.
