Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey pledge stronger military cooperation after Mecca attacks

RIYADH, Sept 25: The Chiefs of General Staff of Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey met in Riyadh on Friday to review security threats facing the Kingdom and discuss strengthening military cooperation under the Mecca Agreement for Joint Defense.

The meeting brought together senior defense officials from the three countries, who strongly condemned attacks targeting Mecca and Saudi Arabia’s civilian and economic infrastructure.

The military chiefs praised the vigilance and professionalism of the Saudi Armed Forces in protecting citizens and residents and safeguarding the Kingdom’s security.

The participants discussed measures to strengthen cooperation among their armed forces, including intelligence sharing, military coordination and integration of defense capabilities, with the aim of enhancing deterrence and collective defense.

They also highlighted the longstanding relations and mutual trust between the three countries and their armed forces, saying the Riyadh meeting reflected the strength of their defense partnership.

The participants affirmed their determination to immediately begin implementing the commitments under the Mecca Agreement for Joint Defense through practical military cooperation.

They also reaffirmed their commitment to collective defense and pledged to defend Saudi Arabia’s security, sovereignty and territorial integrity.