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Saudi Arabia and Pakistan signed a comprehensive mutual defense agreement on Wednesday, marking a significant expansion of security cooperation between the two Muslim nations and introducing a formal collective defense commitment.
The "Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement" was signed during Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif's state visit to Riyadh, where he met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at Al-Yamamah Palace.
Under the new pact, both countries commit to treating an attack on either nation as an attack on both. "The agreement states that any aggression against either country shall be considered an aggression against both," according to a statement from the Pakistani prime minister's office released Wednesday.
The defense agreement builds on what officials described as nearly eight decades of partnership between the two countries, rooted in shared Islamic heritage and strategic interests. Pakistan, which developed nuclear weapons in the 1990s, has maintained close ties with Saudi Arabia across multiple domains, including energy, labor migration, and security cooperation.
The formal defense commitment represents a notable escalation in the relationship, potentially extending Saudi Arabia's security umbrella to include backing from a nuclear-armed ally. Pakistan's nuclear arsenal, estimated by international observers to include more than 150 warheads, has been central to its regional deterrence strategy.
"This agreement, which reflects the shared commitment of both nations to enhance their security and to achieving security and peace in the region and the world, aims to develop aspects of defense cooperation between the two countries and strengthen joint deterrence against any aggression," the Pakistani statement said.
The signing comes as both nations navigate complex regional security challenges. Saudi Arabia has been modernizing its military capabilities and diversifying its defense partnerships as part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 reform program. Pakistan faces ongoing security concerns along its borders and has historically relied on defense partnerships to bolster its strategic position.
The two leaders also discussed broader bilateral relations during their Tuesday meeting, with Prime Minister Sharif conveying greetings to Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and expressing appreciation for Saudi hospitality.
The defense pact formalizes security cooperation that has existed informally for decades, potentially signaling both countries' intention to deepen military coordination in an increasingly volatile regional environment.
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