Paper: GS – II, Subject: International Relations, Topic: Global Issues, Issue: Saudi-Pakistan defence pact.
Context:
Saudi Arabia and Pakistan signed a landmark mutual defence pact, strengthening their decades-old security partnership.
- The agreement declares that any aggression against one will be treated as aggression against both.
- Signed amid rising regional tensions after Israel’s recent actions, it underscores their commitment to enhanced defence cooperation and joint deterrence.
Key Takeaways:
Key Points of the Saudi-Pakistan Defence Pact:
- Historical Context: The defense partnership between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan dates back to the 1960s, with Pakistani troops assisting Saudi Arabia in various security matters.
- Saudi Arabia has also provided financial support to Pakistan’s nuclear program.
- Mutual Defence Clause: The core of the agreement stipulates that any aggression against either Saudi Arabia or Pakistan will be considered an aggression against both.
- This represents a significant formalization of their long-standing defense and security partnership.
- Enhanced Security Cooperation: The pact aims to develop aspects of defense cooperation between the two countries and strengthen joint deterrence against any aggression.
- This could involve increased military training, intelligence sharing, and joint military exercises.
- Strategic and Economic Benefits for Pakistan: The agreement is expected to secure vital Saudi investment and funding for Pakistan, which is currently facing fiscal strain.
- It also reinforces Pakistan’s role as a Pan-Islamic security provider.
- Strengthened Defenses for Saudi Arabia: For Saudi Arabia, the pact strengthens its defenses against threats from Iran, Yemen’s Houthi militias, and regional instability.
Examples:
- 1979 Grand Mosque Seizure: Pakistani special forces assisted Saudi troops, highlighting early defence cooperation.
- Support for Pakistan’s Nuclear Program: Saudi Arabia provided crucial financial aid during sanctions, sustaining Pakistan’s deterrent.
- Training the Saudi Air Force: Since the 1980s, Pakistani personnel have trained Saudi pilots, strengthening operational ties.
- Post-1971 War Assistance: Saudi Arabia gave Pakistan $300 million after its defeat, reinforcing economic and security support.
- India–Saudi Partnership: The Delhi Declaration (2006) and Riyadh Declaration (2010) elevated ties to a strategic partnership.
- Diplomatic Balancing: Saudi FM Adel al-Jubeir’s visit to India during Operation Sindoor (2023) showed Riyadh’s neutral, tactful approach.
Saudi – Pakistan formal alliance: regional implications and Indian Responses:
The Saudi–Pakistan defence pact reinforces historic ties and boosts regional security cooperation but poses challenges for South Asia, especially India. India’s cautious response highlights its focus on protecting national interests while maintaining strong relations with Saudi Arabia, reflecting the delicate balance of diplomacy in a volatile region.
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