Saudi envoy says defence pacts add new dimension to Pakistan ties

Saudi Chargé d’Affaires Naif bin Mlafakh has said recent defence agreements involving Saudi Arabia and Pakistan have added a new strategic dimension to the longstanding partnership between the two countries.

Speaking at a reception in Islamabad to mark Saudi Arabia’s 96th National Day, Mlafakh said relations between Riyadh and Islamabad were rooted in history and had continued to evolve in response to emerging regional challenges.

He highlighted the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement signed by Pakistan and Saudi Arabia in Riyadh in September 2025, saying it reflected mutual confidence and a commitment to strengthening bilateral defence cooperation. The agreement provides that aggression against either country would be considered aggression against both.

Mlafakh also referred to the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement signed by Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Türkiye in August 2026, describing it as an important step towards collective security, defence cooperation and regional stability.

National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq attended the reception as chief guest, along with political, diplomatic and social figures.

Sadiq reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to its defence partnerships with Saudi Arabia and described ties between the two countries as extending beyond traditional diplomacy.

He said Saudi Arabia had emerged as an important force for economic development and regional stability and highlighted the longstanding relationship between the two countries.

A video message from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was also screened during the ceremony.

Pakistani artists Jabir Abbas and Mubashra performed a fusion of Arabic and Urdu songs at the reception.

The ceremony concluded with a cake-cutting to mark Saudi Arabia’s National Day, with Sadiq and the Saudi chargé d’affaires participating in the event.