Makkah Pact to Deepen Piratical Defense Cooperation, Economic Connectivity: Masood Khan
ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 22nd Aug, 2026) Former Ambassador of Pakistan to the United States, China and the United Nations, and former President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Sardar Masood Khan said here on Saturday that the Makkah Pact was designed to establish collective deterrence through strategic synergy among the three member countries.
He emphasized that the agreement envisions practical defense cooperation alongside deeper economic connectivity among Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye.
Speaking on the agreement at Center for Law and Security, Sardar Masood Khan explained that the pact has clearly defined the objective of developing collective deterrence and strategic synergy among its three signatories. He noted that the agreement is not merely declaratory but aims to create concrete capabilities and competencies to translate its strategic intent into an effective mechanism.
He detailed several aspects of the pact:
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Joint Military Exercises & Training: The agreement facilitates joint military exercises and training sessions.
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Defense Cooperation & Procurement: It promotes cooperation in defense procurement and, significantly, joint defense production, contributing to stronger indigenous defense capabilities.
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Institutional Mechanisms: Mechanisms will be established to oversee and advance pact activities, bringing together military specialists and relevant representatives from the three countries.
Khan argued that the Makkah Pact should not be limited to military cooperation, highlighting its economic dimensions as well. He emphasized that participating countries aim to deepen economic connectivity and establish stronger economic underpinnings for their strategic partnership.
He placed the agreement within a broader context, noting:
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Common Bonds: The Muslim world shares important common bonds and interests, despite differences among individual countries.
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Indigenous Approach: He stressed the importance of an indigenous approach to security and cooperation, citing decades of discussion on regional mechanisms without many successful implementations.
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National Interests: Recognizing distinct national interests and strategic considerations among Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye, he emphasized the need for a balanced and mutually beneficial partnership.
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