Historic defence pact inked in holy city aims to bolster collective security, reaffirms defensive nature

ISLAMABAD, AUG 10 /DNA/ – President of Pakistan has issued a formal message to the nation announcing the signing of the landmark “Makkah Joint Defence Agreement” (Makkah Accord) with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Türkiye.

The historic accord was signed in the blessed city of Makkah Al-Mukarramah on Friday, August 7, 2026, marking a significant milestone in Pakistan’s longstanding strategic relationships with both nations.

In his address to the nation, the President emphasized that the Makkah Accord is strictly defensive in nature and is not directed against any country. The agreement aims to strengthen collective deterrence against external aggression and reinforce the signatories’ capacity to defend their sovereignty, territorial integrity, and peoples.

According to the agreement’s provisions, an armed attack against any one of the three countries shall be regarded as an attack against all, consistent with the inherent right of individual and collective self-defence under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter.

The President reaffirmed Pakistan’s firm commitment to the peaceful resolution of disputes, respect for sovereignty and international law, and the pursuit of regional peace, stability, and prosperity.

“The Makkah Accord is not an instrument of confrontation, but an expression of our collective commitment to peace through strength, solidarity and mutual respect,” the President stated in his message.

The President acknowledged the pivotal role played by Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, and the Foreign Office of Pakistan in bringing the historic accord to fruition.

The leadership demonstrated in safeguarding Pakistan’s national interests and strengthening strategic partnerships with Saudi Arabia and Türkiye was commended as exemplary.