Pakistan and Saudi Arabia Sign Mutual Defence Agreement

September 18, 2025
World

Riyadh, September 18, 2025 – Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement on September 17, 2025, during a state visit by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to Riyadh. The agreement was formalized at Al-Yamamah Palace with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, attended by Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, and Saudi Arabia’s defence minister.
The pact commits both nations to treat aggression against one as an attack on both, covering all military means. It includes provisions for joint military exercises, intelligence sharing, and technology transfers. The agreement follows decades of military and economic cooperation, including Saudi financial support to Pakistan.
The signing occurs amid recent regional developments, including Pakistan’s military clash with India in May 2025 and Israel’s strike on Qatar. Sharif’s delegation included ministers of foreign affairs, defence, finance, and information. A joint statement from Pakistan’s Prime Minister’s Office confirmed the mutual aggression clause.
 India’s Ministry of External Affairs stated it is aware of the pact, which was under consideration for some time, and will study its implications for national and regional security. Saudi officials stated the agreement does not affect relations with India.The pact aims to enhance joint deterrence and deepen defence ties. No official comments from the United States or Israel have been reported.
Major Points of the Pakistan-Saudi Arabia Defence Pact, as per Pakistan – 

  • Mutual Aggression Clause: Aggression against either Pakistan or Saudi Arabia is considered an attack on both, requiring a joint response.
  • Military Scope: Covers all military means, including potential nuclear capabilities, joint exercises, intelligence sharing, and technology transfers.
  • Defence Cooperation: Includes plans for joint military training and collaborative deterrence mechanisms.
  • Historical Context: Builds on nearly 80 years of bilateral ties, including Saudi financial aid to Pakistan’s defence programs.
  • Regional Developments: Signed following Pakistan’s clash with India in May 2025 and Israel’s strike on Qatar.
  • India’s Response: India will assess the pact’s security implications while maintaining its interests; Saudi Arabia confirms unchanged ties with India.
  • Key Signatories: Signed by PM Shehbaz Sharif and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, with Pakistan’s army chief and Saudi defence officials present.

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