India to Examine Saudi-Pakistan Defence Agreement: MEA

Speedy Summary

• Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed a mutual defense agreement during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to Riyadh.
• The agreement states that aggression against either country will be viewed as aggression against both, aiming to enhance security and peace in the region.
• India’s Ministry of External Affairs responded by stating it is aware of the growth and committed to protecting India’s national interests and extensive national security.
• The Pakistani Prime Minister participated in an OIC summit in doha earlier on September 15, where Israel was condemned for its bombing in Qatar on September 9.
• Saudi Arabia has deep ties with India, including being one of India’s top energy suppliers and employing notable numbers of Indian expats. It also held joint military exercises with India (SADA-TANSEEQ) from January 29 to February 10, 2024.
• Saudi-pakistan relations have included extensive defense cooperation over decades,marked by Saudi monetary aid after Pakistan’s defeat in the 1971 war and recognition through awards for Pakistani officials.

indian Opinion Analysis

The defense pact between Saudi arabia and Pakistan underscores longstanding bilateral ties but raises questions about regional power dynamics.While the agreement could reinforce shared deterrence between these nations, it may also influence broader strategic calculations involving neighboring states like India. India’s measured response indicates awareness of potential ramifications while maintaining its focus on safeguarding national security interests.

Saudi Arabia plays a dual role-maintaining robust bilateral relations with both Pakistan and india. These relationships highlight Riyadh’s balanced geopolitical strategy but imply complexities amidst evolving alliances. With defense agreements formalizing old arrangements, balancing these partnerships becomes critical to regional stability.

India must assess the implications pragmatically without overreaction while continuing partnerships that capitalize on economic ties like trade or expatriate engagements with Riyadh.

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