Riyadh β September 2025: In a landmark move, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman signed a Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement at Riyadhβs Yamama Palace, pledging that βany aggression against one country will be considered an attack on both.β
This pact marks one of the strongest defense commitments between the two nations in their eight-decade-long partnership, rooted in Islamic brotherhood, military cooperation, and shared strategic interests.
π Key Highlights of the Agreement
-
Mutual Defense Clause: An attack on either country will be treated as an attack on both.
-
Defense Strengthening: Aims to boost joint deterrence and military readiness.
-
Regional Stability: Reinforces commitment to counter threats and enhance security in the Middle East and South Asia.
π£οΈ Diplomatic Talks & Warm Gestures
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed gratitude to the Saudi leadership for their hospitality and conveyed best wishes for King Salman and the Saudi people.
In a symbolic show of respect, Saudi Air Force jets escorted PM Shehbazβs plane upon entering Saudi airspace. He also received a guard of honor on arrival in Riyadh, highlighting the depth of bilateral ties.
The Foreign Office praised the reception as a strong gesture of βbrotherly love and respect.β
π Wider Impact & Future Cooperation
Both leaders emphasized expanding cooperation in:
-
Defense and Security
-
Trade & Economic Partnerships
-
Cultural & People-to-People Exchange
The Pakistani delegation included Deputy PM Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, and Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, among others β reflecting the broad scope of talks.
π Why This Agreement Matters
This deal signals:
-
A new era of defense cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
-
Stronger regional deterrence against external aggression.
-
Reinforced trust and brotherhood, building on past collaborations in energy, trade, and security.
