Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has confirmed that the Pakistan-Saudi Arabia defense pact is open to other Arab nations, describing it as a defensive, NATO-style arrangement. Signed recently in Riyadh, the agreement commits both countries to provide automatic military support if either is attacked, strengthening regional security and unity.
A NATO-Like Defensive Shield
Asif explained that the pact is not aggressive in nature but purely defensive. He said an attack on Pakistan or Saudi Arabia will be treated as an attack on both, ensuring a joint military response. The minister also highlighted that Pakistan’s nuclear capability falls under the agreement, giving it added weight and deterrence power.
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Harsh Words for Afghanistan
In a strong statement, Khawaja Asif labeled Afghanistan as an “enemy state”, accusing it of sponsoring cross-border terrorism and destabilizing Pakistan. He stressed that Pakistan has shown restraint for years but cannot ignore repeated hostilities from across the border.
Criticism of the U.S.
The defense minister also criticized the United States, claiming that Washington “used Pakistan and then abandoned it” after decades of cooperation in global conflicts. He insisted that the new pact demonstrates Pakistan’s sovereign right to build alliances based on mutual respect and shared security goals.
Opening Doors for Arab Nations
By keeping the pact open to other Arab states, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia aim to build a wider regional defense framework. Analysts believe this move could create one of the strongest military alliances in the Muslim world, boosting collective security while sending a strong message to adversaries.
Strengthening Brotherhood
The agreement also reflects the historic brotherhood between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, rooted in shared faith, values, and decades of cooperation. Observers say this step will not only enhance defense ties but also deepen political and economic cooperation.
FAQs
1. What is the Pakistan-Saudi defense pact?
It is a mutual defense agreement where both countries will provide automatic military support if either is attacked.
2. Is the pact open to other Arab nations?
Yes, Khawaja Asif confirmed that other Arab states can join the pact in the future.
3. Does the agreement include Pakistan’s nuclear capability?
Yes, the defense minister stated that Pakistan’s nuclear strength is part of the pact’s deterrence.
4. Why did Khawaja Asif call Afghanistan an “enemy state”?
He accused Afghanistan of sponsoring terrorism and cross-border attacks against Pakistan.
5. How does this pact affect regional security?
The agreement strengthens defense cooperation, deters external threats, and could expand into a wider Arab alliance.
