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Islamabad: The Pak-Saudi Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement is purely defensive and not aimed at any third country. During his weekly media briefing in Islamabad, Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Shafqat Ali Khan, stated that the agreement will enhance regional peace, security, and stability. He emphasized the longstanding brotherhood and cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
According to Radio Pakistan, the bilateral relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia is unique, enduring, and multifaceted. The Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement formalizes this robust partnership that has existed for decades. Shafqat Ali Khan highlighted that the relationship is deeply rooted in the hearts of the people of both countries, with Pakistanis holding special sentiments for Saudi Arabia due to its spiritual significance and respect for the royal family as custodians of holy sites.
The spokesperson noted that since the 1960s, defense cooperation has been a principal pillar of the bilateral relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. He dismissed any speculation regarding the agreement, stating that the joint statement issued by both nations is self-explanatory and does not require unwarranted interpretations.
Addressing a question about recent comments made by the Indian Prime Minister regarding Operation Sindoor, Khan criticized the remarks as dangerous and fact-distorting, aimed at justifying aggression for domestic purposes. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s success in neutralizing Indian military threats and advised Indian leaders to acknowledge their losses instead of misleading narratives about nuclear threats.
Khan further expressed concerns over India’s continued reliance on disinformation and jingoism, warning that such actions risk destabilizing South Asia. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to peace, regional stability, and meaningful dialogue, particularly concerning the Jammu and Kashmir dispute.
In response to a question about Professor Abdul Ghani Butt’s passing, Khan expressed Pakistan’s condolences and paid tribute to Butt’s dedication to the Kashmir cause. He condemned the reported barring of Kashmiris from attending Butt’s funeral by Indian authorities as another example of their oppressive approach towards the Kashmiri people, emphasizing that such actions cannot suppress their desire for self-determination.