ISLAMABAD: Turkiye is at an advanced stage of discussions to join the strategic defence pact signed between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, with talks likely to conclude in a deal, Bloomberg reported, citing sources familiar with the matter.

The Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia considers an attack on either country to be an act of aggression against both.

In its report, Bloomberg said the potential accession would open the way to a new security alignment that “could shift the balance of power in the Middle East and beyond.”

Turkiye is considering joining the pact amid questions over the reliability of the US and its increasingly overlapping interests with those of Saudi Arabia and Pakistan in South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, it added.

Longstanding military relations exist between Pakistan and Turkiye, with a number of defence projects being mutually developed.

Ankara is providing corvette warships to Pakistan’s Navy and also upgraded many F-16 fighter jets of the Pakistan Air Force.

Turkiye, which is currently sharing the drone technology with Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, also intends to involve both countries in its Kaan fifth-generation fighter jet program.

Pakistan & Saudi Arabia’s Strategic Defense Pact

Reflecting nearly eight decades of deep-rooted partnership, brotherhood, and Islamic solidarity, along with shared strategic interests and close defense cooperation, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif signed the Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement (SMDA) between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

This landmark agreement demonstrates both nations’ commitment to enhancing their security and promoting peace and stability in the region and beyond.

The agreement aims to strengthen defense cooperation and ensure joint protection against any act of aggression, stipulating that any hostile action against one country will be considered aggression against both.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the warm reception and generous hospitality extended to him and the Pakistani delegation.

He also conveyed his best wishes for the continued development, prosperity, and well-being of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, the Crown Prince, and the brotherly people of Saudi Arabia.

In response, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman wished Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif good health and success, along with prayers for further progress and prosperity for the people of Pakistan.