ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday praised the newly inked “Makkah Joint Defence Agreement” as a landmark move to enhance peace, security, and defence collaboration among Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye.
Following the signing ceremony in Makkah, the prime minister expressed his honour in signing the pact alongside Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. He described the three nations as “brothers united by faith, friendship, and a shared commitment to peace and security.”
Shehbaz Sharif expressed optimism that the agreement, concluded “under the shadow of the Haramain,” would act as a durable shield of peace for future generations, fostering prosperity for the three countries and the broader Muslim Ummah.
In a significant development, the prime minister also paid tribute to Chief of Defence Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for his pivotal role in advancing the agreement. He conveyed deep appreciation for Munir’s relentless efforts and dedication, which greatly contributed to this important cause.
Earlier, Pakistan’s Foreign Office described the pact as a historic initiative aimed at reinforcing collective security, deepening defence cooperation, and promoting stability across the region. The agreement was signed during the Makkah Al-Mukarramah Summit for Joint Defence held at Al-Safa Palace in Makkah, under the patronage of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
The summit convened Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, and the Saudi crown prince to review bilateral and trilateral relations before finalizing the accord. The Foreign Office noted that the agreement builds upon the longstanding historical ties, Islamic solidarity, and defence cooperation among the three nations.
It stipulates that any armed attack against one of the signatories will be considered an attack against all, thereby strengthening collective deterrence against aggression. Furthermore, the pact emphasizes enhanced collaboration across all defence sectors, reflecting the shared determination of Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye to promote peace, security, and stability within the region and beyond.
