Attack on one to be treated as attack on both nations
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Wednesday signed a landmark strategic mutual defence agreement at Yamama Palace in Riyadh, marking a new chapter in decades of close ties between the two countries.
Shehbaz was received with full protocol, including a guard of honour, and welcomed by Riyadh Deputy Governor Muhammad bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz. As his plane entered Saudi airspace, it was escorted by F-15 fighter jets — a gesture of “brotherly love and respect,” according to PTV News.
The Foreign Office said the visit, undertaken at the crown prince’s invitation, focused on reviewing bilateral cooperation across the spectrum, including economic support and energy. It added that both leaders exchanged views on regional and global issues while reaffirming their resolve to strengthen economic, strategic, and Islamic ties.
“This visit will consolidate our historic partnership while opening new avenues of collaboration,” the FO noted.
Shehbaz was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Environment Minister Musadik Malik, and Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi.
Strategic defence accord
The two nations signed a mutual defence pact, making Pakistan a formal partner in the protection of the Two Holy Mosques. Under the agreement, any armed attack on one country will be regarded as an attack on both.
The deal — in which Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir played a pivotal role — aims to enhance joint defence capabilities, integrate the armed forces, and address current as well as future security challenges.
Officials said the accord builds on long-standing security cooperation that already includes joint training, military exercises, and defence industry collaboration. Beyond military ties, it also carries strategic significance for promoting peace, regional stability, and international security.
For both nations, the pact stands as a milestone, ensuring that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia will confront external threats together.
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