Regional powers welcome Saudi-Türkiye-Pakistan defense pact

Somalia and Bahrain on Friday welcomed the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement signed by Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Pakistan, describing the trilateral pact as a historic step toward strengthening collective security and advancing long-term defense cooperation among the three powers.

Regional powers endorse Mecca accord

Somalia's Defense Ministry issued a statement calling the agreement a historic step toward strengthening collective security and defense cooperation. The ministry said it was confident the pact would make a significant contribution to enhancing regional peace and stability while reinforcing principles of cooperation, solidarity and shared responsibility.

Bahrain cites strategic deterrence

Bahrain's Foreign Ministry characterized the development as a strategic partnership that would strengthen deterrence and contribute to regional and international security. The ministry highlighted the three countries' established defense capabilities, extensive military experience and longstanding roles in promoting regional stability. It noted the agreement represents a partnership among equals, with each state contributing capabilities toward preserving security.

Gulf defense integration

The ministry added that the pact complements the Gulf Cooperation Council's collective defense system, enhances its effectiveness and reinforces regional security through solidarity, integration and partnership. Bahrain reiterated that Saudi Arabia's security is an integral part of its own security and affirmed support for efforts to safeguard regional stability and protect sovereignty.

Mutual defense clause

The historic agreement was signed on Friday at a summit in the Muslim holy city of Mecca attended by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The agreement stipulates that "any armed attack against any one of the three states shall be regarded as an attack against them all," according to the text released following the summit.