Pakistan-Saudi Arabia Sign Mutual Defence Pact in 2025

A New Axis of Power: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia Ink Historic Defence Pact

ISLAMABAD/RIYADH — September 18, 2025 — In a geopolitical move set to send ripples across the Middle East and South Asia, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have today signed a landmark mutual defence pact. The agreement, formally titled the 'Riyadh-Islamabad Defence and Security Cooperation Agreement (RIDSA)', was signed in Riyadh by the Pakistani Minister of Defence, Khawaja Asif, and his Saudi counterpart, Prince Khalid bin Salman Al Saud. The 2000-word document, a culmination of months of intense, behind-the-scenes negotiations, outlines a new era of military, intelligence, and strategic cooperation between the two nations. It represents a significant step towards consolidating a new axis of power in the Islamic world and beyond.

The pact is a direct response to the shifting security landscape in the region, particularly the growing assertiveness of certain powers and the need for a unified front against shared threats. While both nations have historically maintained a close relationship, often described as a "special bond," this agreement codifies that relationship into a formal, binding military alliance. The implications are far-reaching, potentially altering the balance of power and forcing other regional players to reconsider their own strategic alignments.

The Core Tenets of the Agreement

The RIDSA is built on five key pillars, each designed to strengthen the military capabilities and operational synergy of both countries.

Pillar 1: Mutual Defence Commitment

This is the most crucial part of the agreement. Article 3 of the pact explicitly states that "an armed attack on one party shall be considered an armed attack on both." This commitment is a game-changer, as it means Pakistan would be obligated to come to Saudi Arabia's aid in case of a military attack, and vice-versa. This clause is a powerful deterrent against any external aggression. For Pakistan, it provides a crucial security guarantee from a wealthy and influential ally. For Saudi Arabia, it offers access to Pakistan's well-trained and battle-hardened military, particularly its ground forces and strategic assets.

Pillar 2: Joint Military Exercises and Training

The agreement mandates a significant increase in joint military exercises. These drills will be held annually, alternating between Pakistani and Saudi territories. The focus will be on interoperability, with a special emphasis on air defense, naval patrols, and counter-terrorism operations. Pakistani special forces, renowned for their expertise in mountain warfare and counter-insurgency, will conduct joint training with their Saudi counterparts. The pact also includes provisions for the exchange of military officers for training and education at each other's defence academies.

Pillar 3: Intelligence Sharing and Counter-Terrorism

Recognizing the shared threat of extremist groups and transnational terrorism, the pact establishes a joint intelligence coordination committee. This committee will be responsible for sharing real-time intelligence on terrorist networks, their funding, and their movements. Both nations have been victims of terrorist attacks, and this collaboration aims to create a robust, unified front against these non-state actors. The agreement also includes provisions for joint counter-terrorism operations, should the need arise.

Pillar 4: Military Hardware and Technology Transfer

The pact opens a new chapter in defence trade. Saudi Arabia, one of the world's largest defence spenders, is expected to increase its procurement of military hardware from Pakistan. This could include JF-17 Thunder fighter jets, Al-Khalid main battle tanks, and various small arms and ammunition. In return, the agreement includes a provision for technology transfer. Saudi Arabia's immense financial resources will be used to fund Pakistan's defence research and development projects, particularly in missile technology and drone warfare. This collaboration is a win-win: Pakistan gains a much-needed financial boost for its defence industry, while Saudi Arabia gets access to cutting-edge technology and a reliable partner.

Pillar 5: A Strategic Energy Partnership

While primarily a defence pact, the agreement has a significant economic dimension. It includes a provision for a long-term strategic energy partnership. This would see Saudi Arabia guaranteeing a stable and uninterrupted supply of crude oil to Pakistan at preferential rates. This clause is a major relief for Pakistan's energy-starved economy and provides a crucial lifeline. In return, Pakistan could offer its expertise in developing Saudi Arabia's military infrastructure, including naval bases and airfields. This synergy, where Pakistan provides the military expertise and Saudi Arabia the financial muscle, forms the backbone of the pact.

The Geopolitical Context: Why Now?

The signing of the RIDSA cannot be seen in isolation. It is a direct result of several key geopolitical developments in the region.

1. The Rise of Regional Powers: The growing military capabilities of other regional powers, and the perceived vacuum of traditional leadership, has prompted both Pakistan and Saudi Arabia to forge a stronger alliance.
2. Economic Diversification: Saudi Arabia, under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is actively seeking to diversify its economy away from oil. Investing in Pakistan's defence industry is a strategic move to secure new partnerships and expand its influence.
3. Shared Security Concerns: Both nations share similar concerns regarding regional stability, extremism, and the balance of power. The pact is a formal acknowledgement of these shared interests and a commitment to address them collaboratively.
4. A New Era of Alliances: With global alliances in flux, nations are re-evaluating their partnerships. The RIDSA is a clear signal that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are committed to a future where they can rely on each other for their security and economic interests.

Reactions from Around the World

The signing of the RIDSA has elicited a wide range of reactions from around the world, reflecting its potential to reshape regional dynamics.

• India: The Indian Ministry of External Affairs issued a statement expressing "deep concern" over the pact. New Delhi views the alliance as a direct threat to its security interests, particularly given Pakistan's involvement. Experts in India's strategic community are analyzing the implications of a unified front between two of its key neighbours.
• Iran: Iranian officials have reacted cautiously, with some media outlets expressing concern about the pact's potential to destabilize the region. Iran and Saudi Arabia have historically been rivals, and the inclusion of Pakistan in a military alliance is seen as a move to encircle Iran.
• United States: The U.S. State Department has welcomed the pact, viewing it as a move towards greater stability in a volatile region. However, some analysts in Washington are concerned that the alliance could reduce the U.S.'s influence in the Middle East and lead to a new, multi-polar world order.
• China: China has remained silent on the issue, but its close relationship with Pakistan suggests it views the pact favorably. An alliance between two of its key partners in the region could further strengthen its own strategic position and advance its Belt and Road Initiative.

The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

While the RIDSA is a significant step, its implementation will not be without challenges. The pact is a complex document, and its success will depend on the political will and commitment of both nations. The two countries will need to overcome logistical hurdles, cultural differences, and political sensitivities to make the alliance work.

However, the opportunities are immense. The pact has the potential to create a powerful, self-reliant defence bloc that can protect its interests and contribute to regional stability. It is a bold statement that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are ready to take on a more prominent role in global affairs.

In conclusion, the signing of the Riyadh-Islamabad Defence and Security Cooperation Agreement is a historic moment. It marks a new chapter in the relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia and signals a new axis of power in the Islamic world. The pact has the potential to reshape regional dynamics and create a new, more secure future for both nations. The world will be watching closely as this powerful new alliance takes shape.