Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif signed on Wednesday a joint strategic defense agreement between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. The agreement aims to enhance aspects of defense cooperation between the two countries and strengthen joint deterrence against any aggression. It stipulates that any aggression against either country shall be considered an aggression against both, it was announced in a joint statement.

The pact was inked following the official talks between the Crown Prince and Pakistani prime minister at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh. This agreement reflects the shared commitment of both nations to enhance their security and to achieve security and peace in the region and the world, the statement noted. The agreement builds on the historic partnership extending for nearly eight decades between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, and is based on the bonds of brotherhood and Islamic solidarity, as well as shared strategic interests and close defense cooperation between the two countries, it was pointed out.

Sharif, who arrived in Riyadh on a state visit in response to an invitation from the Crown Prince, held an official session of talks attended by delegations, comprising high ranking officials of both countries. During the talks, the leaders reviewed the close bilateral relations and the coordinated efforts to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries in various fields.

They also discussed regional and international developments, and the efforts made to achieve security and stability in the region. The historic and strategic relations between both countries, and a number of topics of common interest were also figured in their talks.

At the outset of the session, Sharif expressed his sincere gratitude and appreciation to the Crown Prince for the warm welcome and generous hospitality extended to him and his accompanying delegation. He also conveyed his best wishes for the continued well-being of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman and the Crown Prince and the continued progress and prosperity for the people of Saudi Arabia. In turn, the Crown Prince extended his warm wishes for the good health and well-being of the Pakistani prime minister, and for further progress and prosperity for the people of Pakistan.

The Crown Prince also hosted an official luncheon in honor of the prime minister.