India to Assess Pakistan-Saudi Arabia Defense Agreement Amid Regional Concerns
New Defense Pact Strengthens Ties
India announced on Thursday that it will carefully examine the recently signed Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. The pact, formalized by Pakistan’s Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, establishes that any aggression against one country will be considered an attack on both, further cementing decades-long security ties.
India’s Official Statement
Responding to media inquiries, Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs, said the government will evaluate the implications of the agreement on national security and regional stability.
“We are aware of reports about the signing of a strategic mutual defense pact between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan,” Jaiswal said. “This formalizes a longstanding cooperation, and we will closely study its potential impact on India’s security and global stability.”
He emphasized that India remains committed to safeguarding its national interests and protecting the country in all strategic domains.
Saudi Arabia Confirms Strong Partnership
Saudi Arabia’s Defense Minister, Prince Khalid bin Salman, reinforced the close alliance with Pakistan, describing the two countries as united against any external threat. On social media, he wrote:
“KSA and Pakistan. One front against any aggressor. Always and forever.”
The agreement builds on almost 80 years of collaboration, highlighting shared strategic goals, defense cooperation, and ties based on brotherhood and Islamic solidarity.
Key Features of the Agreement
The pact states that any attack on one country will be treated as an attack on both, strengthening defense collaboration and joint deterrence capabilities. This institutionalizes the longstanding relationship between the two nations and aims to promote peace and security in the region.
Highlights from the State Visit
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif signed the pact during a state visit to Saudi Arabia, invited by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Upon arrival at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh, the Prime Minister was warmly received and held official talks with the Crown Prince and both countries’ delegations.
During the discussions, Prime Minister Sharif extended greetings to King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, expressing appreciation for the hospitality and the opportunity to strengthen ties. The Crown Prince reciprocated with well wishes for the Prime Minister’s health and for the continued prosperity of Pakistan.
The talks covered the historic strategic relationship between the two countries and explored areas of mutual interest, reinforcing the commitment to regional security and cooperation.