Shehbaz Sharif Reaffirms Pakistan’s Support for Saudi Arabia’s Security

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty and security in a message marking the kingdom’s National Day on Wednesday.

In a statement shared on social media, the prime minister congratulated the Saudi leadership and people on the occasion and highlighted the longstanding relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

Shehbaz also condemned recent attacks attributed to Yemen’s Houthi movement, including a reported attempted drone attack targeting Makkah. He said threats to the security of the Haramain Sharifain are a matter of concern for Muslims around the world.

The prime minister said Pakistan would continue to support Saudi Arabia in matters concerning its sovereignty, security and the protection of Islam’s holy sites.

He also referred to Saudi Arabia’s ongoing economic and social development under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, while describing Pakistan-Saudi relations as an increasingly broad strategic partnership.

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed a Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement in September 2025. According to Pakistan’s Foreign Office, the agreement states that aggression against either country would be considered aggression against both and is intended to strengthen defence cooperation and deterrence.

In August 2026, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye also signed the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement. Pakistan’s Foreign Office has described the agreement as defensive in nature, with an armed attack against one member to be regarded as an attack against all under the framework.

The three countries have since taken steps to institutionalise cooperation under the Makkah agreement, including plans for a joint secretariat in Saudi Arabia.

Shehbaz Sharif concluded his message by expressing hope that relations and cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia would continue to expand.