Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye Hold First Meeting Under Makkah Defence Pact
The three countries have begun discussions on strengthening strategic, political and defence cooperation under their newly signed joint agreement.
Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye held the first meeting of the Strategic Political and Defence Committee established under the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement in Istanbul on Monday.
Pakistan was represented by Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and Defence Minister Khawaja Asif.
Senior foreign and defence officials from all three countries attended the meeting at Istanbul’s Ciragan Palace.
The meeting marks an important step toward developing a framework for trilateral cooperation between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye.
According to Pakistan’s Foreign Office, the meeting reflects the longstanding relations between the three countries and their shared interest in promoting regional peace and stability.
Focus on Defence Cooperation
The participants discussed areas that could strengthen cooperation in defence and related sectors.
The agenda includes improving coordination between the armed forces, enhancing defence capabilities and exploring greater cooperation in the defence industry.
The meeting is also expected to help establish the structure and working mechanisms of the committee, including a roadmap for future cooperation.
The Makkah Joint Defence Agreement was signed on August 7. Under the agreement, the member states have agreed that an armed attack against one country would be considered an attack against all three members.
Bilateral Meetings in Istanbul
Several bilateral meetings were also held alongside the trilateral gathering.
Field Marshal Asim Munir met Turkish National Defence Minister Yaşar Güler to discuss defence relations between Pakistan and Turkiye.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif also held discussions with Turkish officials regarding opportunities to further strengthen bilateral defence cooperation.
Meanwhile, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan on the sidelines of the meeting.
The latest discussions are expected to provide a foundation for continued cooperation among Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye in the coming months.
