Pakistan and Saudi Arabia’s enduring friendship

September 19, 2026

The statement by Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry that Pakistan will go to any extent to defend Saudi Arabia is a strong expression of the close relationship between the two countries. Saudi Arabia has long been one of Pakistan’s closest and most trusted friends. The relationship is not limited to governments or political leaders. It is based on strong ties between the people, armed forces and leadership of both countries. Pakistan has also played an important role in supporting the security and stability of Saudi Arabia. Its military cooperation with the kingdom has continued for decades. Pakistan has trained Saudi personnel and provided defence cooperation while respecting the kingdom’s sovereignty. The DG ISPR’s statement also makes clear that Pakistan takes the security of the two holy mosques very seriously. This is an important responsibility, particularly at a time when tensions in the Middle East remain high.

However, there is a small tongue-in-cheek point here. In international relations, such commitments are usually not announced too loudly. Friends often understand each other without having to say everything publicly. When one country publicly says that it will go to “any extent” for another, the statement naturally attracts attention far beyond the immediate audience. It would therefore be equally encouraging to hear similar strong sentiments from Saudi Arabia about Pakistan’s security and sovereignty. Friendship is strongest when support works both ways. The Makkah Defence Agreement, as described by the Pakistani military, is defensive in nature and is aimed at regional peace and stability. The details of any military response remain confidential, and decisions would be taken collectively by the three countries involved. Pakistan’s role in promoting peace and security in the region deserves appreciation. At the same time, defence cooperation should always serve the larger goal of preventing conflict, protecting civilians and maintaining regional stability.