Pakistan has joined a Saudi-led multinational maritime defence coalition focused on strengthening security across strategic waterways.
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defence announced the development after the coalition’s third planning meeting in Jeddah. Representatives from 39 countries attended the meeting on Thursday.
The coalition has finalized arrangements for its command structure and operational framework. Member states have also started integrating officers into maritime and intelligence operations.
Pakistan Gets Key Command Position
Participants agreed that Pakistan will provide the coalition’s first deputy commander. Saudi Rear Admiral Abdullah bin Salem Al-Shehri serves as the coalition’s commander.
The coalition has also designated its headquarters and approved an official logo. Members have completed organizational and planning frameworks needed to begin operations.
Fifteen countries have signed the coalition’s joint statement so far. Meanwhile, 13 countries have completed domestic procedures required for formal membership.
Coalition Targets Maritime Security
The coalition aims to establish a permanent multinational framework for maritime defence. It will protect navigation, shipping routes, strategic waterways, and international trade.
Its operations will focus on the Red Sea, Bab El-Mandeb Strait, and Gulf of Aden. These waterways connect major trade routes between Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
Saudi officials said the coalition seeks sustainable maritime defence cooperation. They added that growing membership interest reflects concerns over shared maritime threats.
The next implementation phase will focus on operational readiness and assigned defensive missions. Saudi Arabia announced the coalition last month after representatives from 43 countries met in Riyadh.
