New Delhi, Sept 18: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have formally signed the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement, under which both nations pledge to treat any external aggression against one as aggression against both. The pact, inked during Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to Riyadh, was announced on September 17.
The agreement emphasizes expanding defence cooperation and “joint deterrence against any aggression.” Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, has affirmed that this pact does not alter its bilateral relationship with India.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs responded with measured caution. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the government would “study the implications of this development for our national security, as well as for regional and global stability.” He added that the deal formalises a long-standing arrangement, which had been under consideration.
Reactions & Expert Views
Analysts have expressed a spectrum of interpretations. Some view the pact as a signal of shifting regional alignments in response to global changes in security dynamics, especially following increasing tensions in the Middle East. Still, some commentators caution against over-interpretation: while the agreement is strategic, its operational details remain vague.
Experts in India note that even though the agreement strengthens Pakistan-Saudi defence cooperation, its direct military implications against India are not explicit. They emphasize careful monitoring but suggest India’s diplomatic and defence posture is prepared to adapt.
Implications
For India’s Foreign Policy & Defence Posture: The Saudi-Pakistan pact adds to evolving security equations in South Asia and West Asia alike. While India’s reaction remains measured, the deal underlines the importance of strategic flexibility and diplomacy.
