Dar hints at more defence pacts after landmark Saudi deal

Other countries have expressed desire for similar arrangements, says DPM

LONDON: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said on Friday that several countries have expressed interest in pursuing strategic defence agreements with Pakistan, following its landmark pact with Saudi Arabia.

“It is premature to say something, but after this development, other countries have also expressed a desire for similar arrangements,” the deputy premier said while speaking to journalists in London. “But such things follow a due process. Even with Saudi Arabia, it took several months to finalise.”

His statement came two days after Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement, pledging to treat any aggression against one country as aggression against both.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Dar termed the defence agreement with Saudi Arabia a historic milestone, saying that there had always been informal beliefs among the government and the people of Pakistan regarding the security of Saudi Arabia, especially the protection of Haramain Sharifain, but this has become formal now after the signing of the pact.

Dar noted that both Pakistan and Saudi Arabia were satisfied and happy with the agreement, adding that the Kingdom had consistently stood by Pakistan during difficult times.

“Saudi Arabia played a key role in supporting Pakistan following the international crisis and during the recent economic crisis,” he added. Monitoring Desk