Introduction
During Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s official visit to Riyadh, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed a mutual defence pact that highlights the deepening of their long-standing strategic partnership. One of the most notable aspects of the agreement is a key clause stating that any aggression against either nation will be treated as aggression against both.-Saudi-Pakistan Defence Pact
India, while closely monitoring the development, issued a measured and cautious response, describing the deal as a formalization of an arrangement that has been under discussion for years.
Details of the Defence Agreement
- The pact was signed in Riyadh during talks between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif.
- It emphasizes cooperation in defence, security, and regional peace.
- A joint statement mentioned that the agreement is based on decades of partnership, Islamic solidarity, and shared strategic interests.
- The clause on joint deterrence highlights that both countries will consider any external aggression as a threat to their collective security.
India’s Response To The Pact
Reacting cautiously, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said this pact formalizes an arrangement that has existed informally for years.
“We are aware of the signing of this strategic mutual defence agreement. This is a long-standing arrangement between the two countries. India will carefully study its implications for national security, as well as regional and global stability,” the MEA stated.
The Indian government also emphasized that it remains committed to safeguarding national interests and ensuring comprehensive security across all domains.
India’s Response
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) acknowledged the agreement but maintained a calm stance:
- Officials said the pact formalizes a long-standing arrangement between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
- India stated it will study the implications of the agreement in terms of national security and regional stability.
- The MEA also reaffirmed India’s commitment to safeguarding its national interests in every domain.
This response underlines New Delhi’s strategy of keeping communication measured while focusing on regional security dynamics.
Historical Context of Pak-Saudi Relations
- Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have enjoyed strategic ties for nearly eight decades, covering military, economic, and cultural cooperation.
- Saudi Arabia has often extended financial aid and energy support to Pakistan.
- The two countries have also cooperated in defence training and intelligence sharing.
Why This Pact Matters Now
The agreement comes at a sensitive time for South Asia:
- India and Pakistan’s relations are strained after recent terror incidents in Pahalgam and India’s Operation Sindoor counterstrike.
- Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, has deepened ties with India as well, making New Delhi the second-largest trading partner of Riyadh.
- The pact reflects Saudi Arabia’s balancing act of maintaining strong relations with both South Asian rivals.
India-Saudi Relations: A Steady Growth
Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership:
- Bilateral trade between India and Saudi Arabia has grown significantly.
- Both nations have cooperated in energy, technology, and counter-terrorism initiatives.
- During PM Modi’s state visit to Riyadh in April 2025, both sides condemned terrorism in all forms and called for dismantling terror infrastructure globally.
Geopolitical Implications
- For Pakistan: The pact strengthens its security guarantees and shows alignment with a major Gulf power.
- For Saudi Arabia: It reinforces its regional influence and strengthens defence partnerships beyond the Gulf.
- For India: While it does not immediately alter India-Saudi ties, New Delhi will continue to monitor security implications and safeguard its strategic interests.
Conclusion
The Pakistan-Saudi Arabia mutual defence pact signals a deepening of historic ties between the two countries, especially in the defence sector. For India, the agreement is seen as a continuation of past cooperation rather than a new strategic shift. However, in a region where security dynamics are complex, India will carefully assess the long-term impact on its national interests and maintain its growing partnership with Saudi Arabia.
FAQs
Q1. What is the key clause in the Pakistan-Saudi defence pact?
The pact states that any aggression against either country will be considered aggression against both.
Q2. How did India react to this agreement?
India called it a formalization of a long-standing arrangement and said it will study its implications for national security.
Q3. Why is this agreement significant now?
It comes amid strained India-Pakistan relations and reflects Saudi Arabia’s strategy to balance ties with both South Asian countries.
Q4. How strong are India-Saudi relations currently?
India is Saudi Arabia’s second-largest trading partner, and both nations are working closely in energy, trade, and counter-terrorism.
Q5. What does this mean for regional stability?
While the pact reinforces Pak-Saudi ties, India’s measured stance indicates it does not view the deal as an immediate threat but will continue to monitor its impact.
