The first meeting of the Strategic Political and Defence Committee began in Istanbul on Monday. Senior officials from Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye attended the meeting to discuss regional and global security challenges.
According to Turkish news agency Anadolu, the three countries aim to strengthen collective deterrence. Moreover, the meeting seeks to establish a roadmap for future cooperation and mechanisms for implementing the agreement.
Three Countries Discuss Defence Cooperation
Pakistan’s delegation includes Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif and Field Marshal Asim Munir. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s delegation includes Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman and Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan.
The meeting focuses on strengthening defence capabilities and improving coordination between the three countries. Furthermore, officials are expected to discuss greater military interoperability and cooperation in the defence industry.
The discussions will also cover joint production, research and development and counterterrorism cooperation. Consequently, the committee aims to create stronger mechanisms for responding to evolving security threats.
Makkah Pact Strengthens Mutual Defence
Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye signed the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement earlier this month. The pact states that an attack on one member will be considered an attack against all three countries.
Pakistan has repeatedly described the agreement as defensive and said it does not target any country. Additionally, Islamabad has indicated that other states can join if they accept the pact’s fundamental principles.
The Foreign Ministry said Pakistan’s participation reflects its historic ties with Türkiye and Saudi Arabia. It also highlighted Islamabad’s commitment to lasting regional peace and stability.
Earlier, Ishaq Dar met Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in Türkiye. They reviewed bilateral relations and discussed political, economic, security and cultural cooperation.
According to Anadolu, the committee will provide strategic direction for activities under the trilateral agreement. The meeting could therefore strengthen coordination between the three countries amid rising regional tensions.
