New Riyadh-Islamabad agreement declares that “any aggression against either country shall be considered an aggression against both”
Pak-Saudi Defence Pact Sealed During Shehbaz Sharif’s Visit to Riyadh
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have signed a mutual defence agreement, solidifying their long-standing strategic and military ties. The pact was signed during Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s official visit to Riyadh, where he met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
A key clause in the agreement states:
“Any aggression against either country shall be considered an aggression against both.”
The agreement comes amid heightened geopolitical sensitivities in the region.
India’s Response: “Formalising Long-standing Arrangement”
In a measured and diplomatic response, India acknowledged the development:
- India has been aware of ongoing discussions between the two nations.
- The pact is seen as a formalisation of existing military cooperation.
- India stated it will study the implications for its national and regional security.
MEA Statement:
“The government was aware that this development, which formalises a long-standing arrangement between the two countries, had been under consideration… We remain committed to protecting India’s national interests.”
Details of the Defence Pact
According to the joint statement released by both countries:
- The agreement builds on an eight-decade-long historic partnership.
- It is rooted in Islamic solidarity, strategic interests, and close defence cooperation.
- It aims to:
- Strengthen joint deterrence
- Enhance regional peace and security
- Expand military collaboration
Present during the signing was Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir, highlighting the military significance of the pact.
Broader Context: Strategic Ties and Regional Stability
The timing of this agreement is significant:
- Comes shortly after the Pahalgam terror attack in India and Operation Sindoor, India’s military response.
- Saudi Arabia had strongly condemned the Pahalgam attack during Prime Minister Modi’s state visit in April 2025.
- India and Saudi Arabia have seen strengthened bilateral ties, with:
- India being Saudi Arabia’s second-largest trading partner
- Joint calls to reject terrorism and dismantle terror infrastructure
India-Saudi Relations: A Growing Strategic Partnership
- PM Narendra Modi has visited Saudi Arabia three times.
- In 2016, he received the King Abdulaziz Sash, the kingdom’s highest civilian honour.
- Both nations have reinforced their anti-terrorism stance, calling for swift justice against perpetrators.
The new Saudi-Pakistan defence agreement may reshape security dynamics in South Asia and the Gulf. While India has reacted cautiously, the long-term strategic implications of this pact will likely unfold in the coming months as regional tensions continue to evolve.
