Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan Sign Collective Deterrence Defense Pact, Emphasizing Non-Targeted Scope

Leaders from Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan have signed a joint defense agreement, known as the "Makkah Agreement for Joint Defense," based on the principle of collective deterrence. This development occurred during Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's visit to Mecca, where he met with Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. President Erdoğan affirmed in a social media post that this agreement will contribute to enhancing security and defense cooperation, developing joint projects in defense industries, and combating terrorism. He clarified that the agreement, which recognizes the right to self-defense as stipulated in Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, does not target any specific country and is open for participation by all nations striving for peace, prosperity, and stability in the region. Erdoğan reiterated Turkey's commitment to resolving disputes and crises through dialogue and diplomacy, based on respect for international law and in line with its vision for regional sovereignty. The Turkish President expressed his hope that his visit to the Kingdom, along with the consultations and the signed agreement, would bring blessings to the entire region. A joint statement issued by the three countries underscored that the "Makkah Agreement for Joint Defense" reflects a shared commitment to strengthening collective security, peace, and stability in the region and beyond, striving towards a secure and prosperous future. The statement clarified that the agreement aims to reinforce collective deterrence against any aggressive act and stipulates that any armed attack against any of the three nations shall be considered an attack against all of them. It also emphasized boosting all aspects of defense cooperation among the three countries, without detailing specific obligations or duties undertaken by each party.