RIYADH, September 18, 2025 – In a landmark development, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia on Wednesday signed a Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement, formalizing their commitment to stand shoulder to shoulder in the face of external threats.
The accord affirms that an act of aggression against one state will be treated as an attack on both, further cementing one of the strongest defense partnerships in the Muslim world.
The agreement was concluded during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s high-profile state visit to Riyadh. Upon arrival, he was received with exceptional warmth by Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman at the historic Al-Yamamah Palace. The meeting underscored the deep-rooted ties between the two nations, which have spanned nearly eight decades.
According to the joint statement, the pact is built on “bonds of brotherhood, Islamic solidarity, and shared strategic interests.” It aims to expand bilateral defense cooperation, enhance joint deterrence, and contribute positively to regional stability and global peace. Military analysts view this development as a significant step in formalizing the already strong military collaboration between the two allies.
The timing of the agreement is also noteworthy. It comes in the aftermath of an Israeli strike directed towards Qatar, an incident that stirred widespread concern across Muslim-majority countries. By signing this pact, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have sent a clear signal of unity and collective resolve to the broader international community.
During the visit, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his deep appreciation for the generous hospitality extended by the Saudi leadership. He conveyed heartfelt best wishes to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, and to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, praying for their good health and for the continued prosperity of the Kingdom and its people. In response, the Saudi monarch extended warm wishes for the progress and prosperity of the people of Pakistan, reaffirming the fraternal ties binding the two nations.
The high-level delegation accompanying the prime minister included Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, and Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb. Their presence underscored the multi-dimensional importance of the visit, encompassing defense, diplomacy, and economic cooperation.
The ceremonial welcome reflected the special regard accorded to Pakistan by Saudi Arabia. As the prime minister’s special aircraft entered Saudi airspace, it was escorted by F-15 fighter jets of the Royal Saudi Air Force—a symbolic gesture of friendship and protection. Upon landing at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, a 21-gun salute resounded, followed by a formal guard of honor presented by the Saudi armed forces.
Deputy Governor of Riyadh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz led the welcoming party, alongside Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Nawaf bin Saeed Al-Maliki, Pakistani Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Ahmed Farooq, and senior diplomats. Throughout Riyadh, the green crescent flags of Pakistan fluttered prominently, lining the motorcade route and highlighting the significance of the visit.
This agreement represents not only a milestone in bilateral relations but also a bold step toward ensuring collective security in a volatile region. Both nations have reaffirmed that their strategic partnership will remain a cornerstone of stability in the Middle East and beyond.