Key Takeaways
- Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with the Secretary-General of the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement.
- The meeting focused on promoting defence and strategic cooperation under the pact.
- Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with the newly-appointed Secretary-General of the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement, Lieutenant General (retd) Nauman Mahmood, on Wednesday. The meeting was held to discuss defence and strategic cooperation under the pact.
Lt Gen (retd) Mahmood was appointed as the first secretary general of the Makkah Defence Alliance between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye last month. The agreement, signed on August 7, empowers member states to treat an attack against one of them as an attack against all.
During the meeting, PM Shehbaz reiterated that the pact is a 'historic milestone for peace, unity, and stability in the region.' He wished Lt Gen (retd) Mahmood well for his new role.
The premier also reaffirmed Pakistan's 'unwavering commitment' to the protection of Saudi Arabia's 'sovereignty, territorial integrity, and security.'
Pakistan's commitment was highlighted in light of recent tensions between Saudi Arabia and Yemen's Houthi rebels. The premier stated that Pakistan 'stands shoulder to shoulder' with Saudi Arabia during the meeting.
The Makkah Joint Defence Agreement is a significant development in regional security, bringing together Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye to enhance mutual defence and strategic cooperation.
The meeting underscores the importance of the alliance in addressing regional security challenges and promoting peace and stability in the region.
