LAHORE:Politicians have welcomed Makkah Joint Defence Agreement signed by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye in Makkah, terming it a historic and much due move.
Acting Governor Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan has welcomed the defence agreement signed by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye in Makkah, describing it as recognition of Pakistan’s diplomatic and strategic importance and an important development for regional peace and stability.
Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan while commenting upon the agreement said the growing defence cooperation among the three countries reflected mutual trust and a shared commitment to security, peace and stability.
He said the agreement would further strengthen relations among Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye and contribute to the broader concept of collective security in the region. He stressed that the cooperation was not directed against any country but was aimed at promoting peace, mutual respect and shared interests.
The acting governor commended Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for his successful diplomacy and political vision, saying Pakistan had strengthened its diplomatic role at the regional and international levels under his leadership.
Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan described the Makkah agreement as a significant diplomatic achievement for Pakistan and said the country had reason to take pride in the development.Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan also praised Pakistan’s defence capabilities and the professional preparedness of the armed forces under the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir. He said the armed forces had consistently played a responsible role in safeguarding the country’s security and sovereignty and contributing to peace and stability in the region.
‘Pakistan does not seek confrontation with any country and believes in peace, mutual respect and cooperation,’ Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan said, adding that a strong defence was essential for safeguarding national sovereignty and maintaining peace.
The Makkah defence agreement could also open new avenues for cooperation in trade, investment, technology and defence production.He said Saudi Arabia’s economic strength, Turkiye industrial and defence capabilities, and Pakistan’s strategic geographical location, human resources and defence experience could create new opportunities for cooperation in economic and strategic sectors. He said the partnership among Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye had the potential to contribute to peace, stability and prosperity across the region.
He congratulated Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and the nation on the historic defence agreement and prayed for lasting peace, security, stability and prosperity in Pakistan.
‘The pact is a historic agreement in many respects. It confirms Pakistan permanent position in Middle East politics,’ said former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry while talking to The News.Fawad Chaudhry stated the agreement is not anti-Iran as many perceive rather it limits USA role in ME security and give Pakistan and Turkiye bigger role, this is something Iran may welcome.
However, he said the economic benefits for people of Pakistan are still unclear and obviously people would like to know some details of economic benefits attached with the agreement.Shaharyar Mahar, the PPP member of National Assembly (MNA), while talking to The News termed this agreement a 'potent alliance'. He said it was much due and awaited.
Shaharyar Mahar also said that unity in the ranks of Muslim Ummah was need of hour.MobeenArifJutt, PTI backed MNA from Gujranwala, while taking to The News also welcomed the development. He said everything meant for the unity of Islamic countries was praiseworthy and vital while keeping in view the current situation, particularly related to the Middle East.
