Pakistan Opens Doors for More in Saudi Defence Pact
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have signed a mutual defence agreement under which any aggression against one country will be treated as aggression against both. The deal was signed by Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh.
Veiled Message for India
Soon after the pact, Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said that the “doors are not closed” for other nations to join the agreement. Many view this as a message to India, suggesting that Pakistan is willing to expand its security alliances.
India’s Response
India has said it will closely study the implications of the new pact and take steps to protect its national interests. The Indian government emphasised the need to ensure its security across all fronts.
Broader Implications
Analysts believe this Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement formalises long-standing cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. It is seen as part of a broader shift in regional security amid changing geopolitical dynamics.
