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🇧🇩 Bangladesh /Conflict & Security

Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Pakistan to Sign Joint Defense Pact Amid Regional Tensions

From Daily Star · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan are set to sign a joint defense agreement in Jeddah, aiming to strengthen regional security ties.
  • The agreement comes amid heightened tensions between the United States and Iran, which have impacted Gulf states and shipping routes.
  • The pact, discussed for a long time, is expedited by recent regional developments, with leaders of the three nations meeting in Jeddah.

Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan are poised to sign a significant joint defense agreement in Jeddah, a move aimed at bolstering regional security amidst escalating tensions between the United States and Iran. Sources close to the Saudi military and government confirmed to AFP that the pact will be finalized on Friday.

The agreement, which has been under discussion for an extended period, has gained urgency due to recent developments in the region, including disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea. A source indicated that the current climate has expedited the signing process.

It was under discussion for a long time but the latest developments in the region expedite it.

— Source close to the Saudi military and governmentA source explains why the joint defense agreement is being signed now.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is scheduled to meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in the Red Sea city. Sharif and Pakistan's army chief arrived in Saudi Arabia on Thursday, while Erdogan is expected on Friday. Pakistan's foreign ministry stated the visit, from August 6 to 8, holds significance beyond the immediate crisis.

This potential strategic alliance has been the subject of speculation for months. Notably, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan had previously announced a joint defense pact for 2025, drawing attention as Pakistan is the only nuclear-armed state in the Muslim world. The upcoming agreement underscores a growing desire among regional powers to enhance cooperation and stability.

Although taking place against the backdrop of heightened tensions in the Gulf, the visit will carry significance beyond the immediate crisis and short term considerations.

— Tahir AndrabiPakistan's foreign ministry spokesman comments on the importance of the leaders' visit.
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Originally published by Daily Star in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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