Islamabad, August 10, 2026: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar has described the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement signed by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye as a historic milestone in strengthening strategic cooperation and collective security, stressing that the pact is defensive in nature and not directed against any country.
In a message to the nation on Monday, Dar congratulated the people of Pakistan on the signing of the “Makkah Joint Defence Agreement” in the holy city of Makkah Al-Mukarramah on August 7, saying the accord reflected the deep brotherly bonds, shared values and common commitment to peace, security and stability among the three countries.
He said the agreement marked an important development in Pakistan’s longstanding strategic relationships with Saudi Arabia and Türkiye and demonstrated the three countries’ shared resolve to strengthen cooperation in addressing evolving peace and security challenges in the region.
“I wish to reiterate that the Makkah Accord is defensive in nature. It is not directed against any country,” Dar said.
He explained that the agreement was intended to strengthen collective deterrence against external aggression and reinforce the three countries’ ability to safeguard their sovereignty, territorial integrity and peoples.
Under the agreement, an armed attack against any one of the three signatories would be regarded as an attack against all, consistent with the inherent right of individual and collective self-defence under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter.
Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the peaceful resolution of disputes, respect for sovereignty and international law, and efforts to promote regional peace, stability and prosperity.
“The Makkah Accord is not an instrument of confrontation, but an expression of our collective commitment to peace through strength, solidarity and mutual respect,” he said.
The deputy prime minister also praised the role of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and the Foreign Office in bringing the agreement to fruition.
He said their leadership and vision had played a pivotal role in safeguarding Pakistan’s national interests and strengthening the country’s strategic partnerships with Saudi Arabia and Türkiye.
Dar said the signing of the accord demonstrated the commitment of the three countries to working together to strengthen collective security while contributing to a peaceful and stable regional environment.
