Key points:
- Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that the newly signed trilateral defence agreement with Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates is a cooperative arrangement, not a tool of aggression.
- The pact extends a long history of military collaboration among the three nations, focusing on joint training, intelligence sharing and logistical support.
- Sharif highlighted the agreement’s role in safeguarding the sacred sites of Haramain Sharifain and strengthening regional counter‑terrorism efforts.
- He paid tribute to the sacrifices of Pakistani troops in the ongoing fight against extremism, underscoring the pact’s contribution to national and regional security.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s remarks come as Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates formalise a trilateral defence agreement that builds on decades of military cooperation. The pact, signed in Riyadh earlier this month, is designed to enhance interoperability through joint exercises, intelligence exchange and coordinated logistics, rather than to project power or pursue aggressive postures.
A key element of the agreement is the protection of the Haramain Sharifain— the holy sites of Mecca and Medina— a responsibility that Pakistan has historically supported through its military presence in the region. By reinforcing this commitment, the pact signals Pakistan’s continued dedication to safeguarding pilgrims and maintaining stability in the Arabian Peninsula.
The Prime Minister also used the occasion to acknowledge the sacrifices made by Pakistani forces in the fight against terrorism, both domestically and abroad. He emphasized that the trilateral framework would provide additional resources and expertise to counter extremist threats, thereby bolstering Pakistan’s own security apparatus. For the Pakistani public, the agreement represents a tangible step toward greater regional cooperation and a reaffirmation of the country’s role as a key partner in maintaining peace and stability in South Asia and the Middle East.
