Pakistan and Saudi Arabia Sign Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement During PM Shehbaz Sharif’s Visit

Riyadh, September 17, 2025 – Pakistan’s Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz SharifShehbaz Sharif paid a state visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at the invitation of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia.

The visit took place on 25/3/1447H, corresponding to 17 September 2025, where both leaders held an official round of talks at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh. Delegations from both countries attended the meeting.

Strengthening Eight Decades of Partnership

At the start of the talks, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif conveyed his greetings and best wishes to King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques. Both leaders reviewed the historic relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, which spans nearly eight decades of partnership, brotherhood, and Islamic solidarity.

The discussions also covered defense cooperation, regional peace, and shared strategic interests, reflecting the strong bond between the two brotherly nations.

Signing of Strategic Mutual

Defense Agreement

A key highlight of the visit was the signing of the Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement (SMDA) between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

The agreement aims to:

• Strengthen bilateral defense cooperation.

• Enhance joint deterrence against any form of aggression.

• Contribute to peace and security in the region and the world.

The document states that any aggression against one country will be considered an aggression against both, marking a major step in defense collaboration between Islamabad and Riyadh.

Warm Exchange of Wishes

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his deep gratitude to Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the warm welcome and generous hospitality extended to him and his delegation.

He also extended his best wishes for the health and well-being of King Salman and the continued prosperity of the Saudi people.

In return, the Crown Prince wished Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif good health and conveyed prayers for the progress and prosperity of the people of Pakistan.