Pakistan-Saudi Arabia Sign Historic Defence Pact, Doors Open for Other Arab Nations
By jupitorworld | September 19, 2025
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia sign a landmark mutual defence agreement, pledging joint response to any aggression. Khawaja Asif says other Arab nations may also join.
Islamabad/Riyadh —
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have entered into a historic Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement, pledging that any attack on one nation will be treated as an attack on both. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has confirmed that the “doors are not closed” for other Arab countries to join the pact, hinting at a possible expansion of regional security cooperation.
The agreement was signed at Riyadh’s Al-Yamamah Palace by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, marking the most significant upgrade in bilateral defence ties in decades.
“Defence Umbrella” Similar to NATO
In an interview with Geo News, Khawaja Asif stressed that the pact is defensive in nature, not aggressive.
“If there is aggression against either Pakistan or Saudi Arabia, we will jointly defend against it,” he said.
He explained that the deal functions like a regional defensive umbrella, similar to NATO, while leaving room for other Arab nations to become part of the arrangement.
Asif highlighted that Pakistan has long supported collective security among Muslim nations, calling it a “fundamental right” to safeguard their people and region.
Nuclear Capabilities and Responsible Conduct
When asked about Pakistan’s nuclear assets under the agreement, Asif clarified that the country’s military capabilities would be available for defence, but emphasized that Pakistan has always acted as a responsible nuclear power.
He contrasted Pakistan’s transparency with Israel, pointing out that Pakistan has allowed international inspections of its nuclear facilities, while Israel has not.
Historic Military Partnership
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia share decades of military cooperation. Pakistani troops have been stationed in the Kingdom since the late 1960s, and thousands helped train Saudi forces after the 1979 Grand Mosque crisis.
The new pact formalizes what was already a long-standing defence partnership, with Asif calling it a natural “extension” of past cooperation. He also underlined that the protection of holy Islamic sites in Saudi Arabia remains a “sacred duty” for Pakistan.
Afghanistan Relations: “A Hostile Country”
On regional security, Asif was blunt about Afghanistan, accusing Kabul of allowing its soil to be used for terrorist attacks against Pakistan.
“Afghanistan is a hostile country. Through terror groups, they are blackmailing us. We are very clear on this matter,” he said.
He recalled how Pakistan became entangled in two Afghan wars — during the Soviet invasion and the US-led intervention — but continues to face the consequences, including violence from the TTP and BLA.
Regional Implications
The joint statement from Islamabad and Riyadh emphasized that the pact reflects a shared commitment to peace and stability in the region. Analysts see the deal as both a strategic security shield and an economic lifeline for Pakistan, securing Saudi investment during financial strain.
For Riyadh, the agreement bolsters defence against threats from Iran, Houthi militias, and Israel’s aggression in Gaza and beyond.
Experts suggest this pact could serve as a foundation for a broader Muslim world defence alliance, especially if other Arab nations join in the future.
What This Means Going Forward
For Pakistan: Enhanced strategic relevance, financial support, and recognition as a leading Islamic military power.
For Saudi Arabia: Reinforced security architecture in the Gulf, greater deterrence against regional threats.
For the Region: A shift towards collective defence among Muslim nations, comparable in principle to NATO.
FAQ: People Also Ask
Q: Can other Arab countries join the Pakistan-Saudi defence pact?
A: Yes, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif confirmed that the pact is open to other Arab nations.
Q: Does the agreement include nuclear cooperation?
A: Pakistan’s defence capabilities are available, but the country maintains its responsible nuclear stance.
Q: Is this pact aggressive against any country?
A: No, both sides clarified it is a defensive arrangement, not aimed at any specific state.