Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has said that while it is too early to name other countries, the Pakistan-Saudi Arabia defense agreement is not closed to the inclusion of other nations. He clarified that the door remains open for future partners in the pact.
According to the minister, the recently signed Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement (SMDA) between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia is a major step forward. He explained that under the deal, an attack on either country will be considered an attack on both. In such a scenario, both nations will respond jointly. He added that the agreement has enhanced Pakistan’s global standing and credibility.
Khawaja Asif emphasized that while no third country has been included at this stage, the idea is not ruled out. The main goal of the pact is to strengthen mutual defense and to ensure the protection of both nations against any external threats. He said this historic partnership reflects a shared commitment to peace and security in the region and beyond.
Meanwhile, Federal Minister for Information Atta Tarar, speaking to the media in London, praised the success of Pakistan’s foreign policy over the past 18 months. He said it is a matter of great pride that Pakistan has been entrusted with the honor of contributing to the protection of the Holy Mosques in Saudi Arabia. He called this a milestone in Pakistan’s diplomatic and defense efforts.
It is worth noting that the SMDA was signed a day earlier in a high-level meeting between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The agreement aims to boost defense cooperation, ensure joint protection against aggression, and promote regional peace and security. It marks a strategic deepening of ties between the two brotherly nations.