Pakistan, Saudi Arabia sign Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement

September 17, 2025 (MLN): Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have signed a landmark Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement, pledging that any aggression against either country would be considered an attack on both.

The deal aims to expand defense cooperation, strengthen joint deterrence, and enhance regional and global security.

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif signed the agreement during his state visit to Riyadh, where he was hosted by Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud at Al-Yamamah Palace.

The two leaders reviewed the historic partnership, spanning nearly eight decades, and discussed a range of issues of common interest, reaffirming their shared commitment to regional peace, security, and prosperity.

Sharif expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and hospitality, extending best wishes to King Salman and the Saudi people. The Crown Prince, in turn, conveyed his wishes for the progress and prosperity of Pakistan and its people.

Lately, Sharif also attended the Emergency Arab–Islamic Summit in Doha, where he met Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi. 

Both leaders condemned Israel’s September 9 attack as a reckless violation of sovereignty and international law, and agreed to maintain close contact in light of the regional situation.