Strategic Political and Defence Committee Convenes in Riyadh Under Makkah Joint Defence Agreement
The Strategic Political and Defence Committee established under the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement meets in Riyadh today to review regional developments and ongoing security cooperation between Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Türkiye. Pakistan’s participation in the high-level talks signifies the country’s resolve to continue contributing towards regional peace and stability, according to a Foreign Office statement.
The diplomatic gathering follows intense fighting and escalating cross-border strikes in the region. The committee’s agenda focuses on reviewing the institutionalization of the alliance and addressing recent security threats, including Houthi attacks targeting Saudi territory. The meeting brings together top-tier military leadership and foreign ministers from the three member states to evaluate collective deterrence measures.
Delegation Lineup and Institutional Framework
Pakistan’s delegation to the Strategic Political and Defence Committee includes Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, and Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir. Deputy Prime Minister Dar traveled to Madina ahead of the Riyadh talks, where he paid his respects at the Prophet’s Mosque and offered prayers before proceeding to the Saudi capital.
The Turkish Foreign Ministry confirmed that its delegation includes Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Defence Minister Yasar Guler, and Chief of the General Staff General Selcuk Bayraktaroglu. The Makkah Joint Defence Agreement, originally signed on August 7, empowers signatory states to treat an attack against one member as an attack against all. During the alliance’s first committee meeting in Istanbul on August 31, officials decided that Pakistan would initially head the secretariat for three years, appointing retired Lieutenant General Nauman Mahmood as the first secretary general.
Riyadh Talks Follow Military Escalation in Yemen
Pakistan’s involvement in supporting the Saudi-backed government has deepened in recent weeks. In September, Pakistan dispatched four cargo planes carrying air defence systems, light artillery, drones, and anti-drone systems to the port city of Aden, citing a Pakistani government official. Pakistani military advisers are stationed on the ground to support Yemeni troops alongside Saudi counterparts. Ahead of the Riyadh meetings, DPM Dar noted on Friday that Iran suggested engaging Yemen’s Houthis politically, a proposal scheduled for discussion among committee members this week.
Makkah Joint Defence Agreement Details
When was the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement signed?
The trilateral joint defence agreement between Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Türkiye was officially signed on August 7.
Who serves as the first secretary general of the alliance?
Retired Lieutenant General Nauman Mahmood was appointed as the first secretary general of the alliance, with Pakistan heading the secretariat for an initial three-year term.
What specific military equipment did Pakistan provide to Yemen in September?
Pakistan delivered air defence systems, light artillery, drones, and anti-drone systems to the port city of Aden via four cargo planes in September, according to reports citing a Pakistani government official.