Pakistan and Kuwait are holding preliminary talks on expanding defence cooperation under a broader agreement, according to sources familiar with the discussions. The proposed arrangement could link military collaboration with energy cooperation and investment.
The discussions remain at an early stage and may be affected by rising tensions between the United States and Iran. Sources said both countries are reviewing options to strengthen bilateral security ties.
Kuwait is seeking a wider defence arrangement beyond the existing cooperation agreement with Pakistan. The current framework includes military training and joint exercises established in 2023.
Sources said Kuwait has explored a partnership similar to Pakistan’s mutual defence arrangement with Saudi Arabia. However, Pakistani officials said Islamabad was not considering deploying combat forces as part of any agreement.
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Meanwhile, officials said potential cooperation could include defence procurement, training, and security coordination. Gulf countries are reassessing their regional security arrangements and seeking diversified defence partnerships.
Pakistan is considered a potential security partner by some Gulf states due to its large armed forces, defence production capabilities, and longstanding regional relationships. Officials said Islamabad would also seek stronger energy cooperation with Kuwait.
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Additionally, sources said Bahrain has shown interest in a similar defence arrangement with Pakistan, while Jordan has explored military equipment and training cooperation. Talks are expected to progress after regional tensions ease.