THE signing of the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia in Riyadh on Wednesday is indeed a significant development for both states.
Though defence ties between Islamabad and Riyadh go back to at least the 1960s, and Pakistani troops have been stationed in the kingdom during various periods, the fresh pact strengthens earlier agreements, and most importantly, reiterates the principle that “aggression against either country shall be considered aggression against both”.
While the defence deal was reportedly being discussed over the past few years, timing is everything, and the fact that it was inked mere days after the Israeli attack on Qatar has not gone unnoticed globally. The Gulf Arabs, including Saudi Arabia, have seemingly come to the realisation that despite their deep ties with the US, America is unlikely to come to their defence. Hence they are now exploring other options. Pakistan, which maintains excellent ties with the Gulf monarchies, and which has a battle-tested military, appears to be a natural partner.
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