Pakistan and Saudi Arabia Forge Landmark Strategic Defence Agreement
ISLAMABAD In a display of deep diplomatic and strategic camaraderie Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Riyadh on an official visit at the invitation of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. His arrival was marked by a striking show of respect: Saudi F-15 fighter jets escorted his aircraft as it entered the Kingdoms airspace symbolizing the enduring bond between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
Upon touchdown at King Khalid International Airport the Prime Minister was warmly welcomed by Deputy Governor of Riyadh Prince Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman bin Abdul Aziz Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Nawaf bin Saeed Al-Maliki Pakistans envoy to Saudi Arabia Ahmed Farooq and other senior diplomatic officials. The city of Riyadh had been adorned with Pakistans iconic green and white crescent flags in a grand gesture of goodwill.
A 21-gun salute and ceremonial honors by the Saudi Armed Forces followed setting the tone for a visit steeped in symbolism and statecraft. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was later received with full royal protocol at Al Yamamah Palace where Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman greeted him amidst a traditional cavalry guard and formal military parade.
High ranking members of the Pakistani delegation included Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb Climate Change Minister Dr. Musadik Malik and Special Assistant Syed Tariq Fatemi.
Earlier during the mid air ceremonial escort Prime Minister Shehbaz personally acknowledged the Saudi fighter jets from the cockpit extending his thanks to the Crown Prince in a rare moment of mid flight diplomacy.
Defense Minister Khawaja Asif later remarked that the escort demonstrated not only Saudi Arabias reverence for Pakistans leadership but also the depth of bilateral trust and defense synergy between the two nations.
A New Chapter in Strategic Alliance: The Mutual Defense Agreement
Following their meeting at Al Yamamah Palace both nations issued a joint communiqué reaffirming their historic and strategic partnership one rooted in over seven decades of brotherhood, Islamic unity and regional cooperation.
The centerpiece of this official visit was the signing of the Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement (SMDA) a milestone pact formalized by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The agreement signifies a fortified security alliance promising mutual defense in the face of aggression and a united front for regional stability.
Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir was instrumental in shaping and finalizing this landmark accord.
Highlights of the Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement (SMDA):
- Joint Defense Commitment: An attack on one will be considered an attack on both solidifying a shared defense posture.
- Custodianship of the Holy Sites: Pakistan is the first nation officially entrusted to stand alongside Saudi Arabia in protecting the Two Holy Mosques Masjid al Haram and Masjid an Nabawi ﷺ.
- Enhanced Military Collaboration: The agreement calls for improved joint preparedness interoperability and defense integration.
- Shared Vision: The accord echoes both nations shared aspirations for peace, security and prosperity not just in the region but globally.
- Strategic Benefits: It lays the foundation for broader collaboration in defense, economics, intelligence and diplomacy.
What Does “Joint Defense” Truly Entail?
In practical terms “joint defense” means that both Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are now bound by a formal commitment to support each other militarily in the event of any external aggression. Whether in defense of borders airspace or strategic interests the pact ensures synchronized response and mutual support.
Warm Diplomatic Gestures
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep appreciation for the Kingdoms gracious hospitality and reaffirmed Pakistans enduring commitment to its closest ally in the Arab world. He also extended his heartfelt prayers and best wishes to King Salman bin Abdulaziz, the Crown Prince and the people of Saudi Arabia.
In return Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman conveyed his admiration for Pakistans leadership and extended best wishes for the countrys continued progress and prosperity.
