Turkey Eyes Joining Pakistan-Saudi Defense Pact potentially creating a stronger security alliance in South Asia and the Middle East. According to Bloomberg, sources familiar with the discussions said talks are at an advanced stage, and an agreement seems likely. The original pact signed in September last year in Riyadh by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, stipulates that an attack on one country will be treated as an attack on both, strengthening collective security and deterrence.
Turkey’s interest in joining the alliance stems from its growing strategic and security priorities across South Asia, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. Experts say the move reflects Turkey’s desire to enhance its defense capabilities amid questions about US and NATO commitments, despite strong military ties with all three countries.
A strategist at Ankara-based think tank TEPAO, Nihat Ali Ozcan told Bloomberg that combining Saudi Arabia’s financial strength, Pakistan’s nuclear and missile capabilities, and Turkey’s military expertise could create a highly effective security bloc.
While officials from Pakistan, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia declined to comment publicly, analysts believe Turkey joining the pact could mark a new era of trilateral cooperation. Relations between Turkey and Saudi Arabia have improved in recent years, with stronger economic and defense collaboration. A first naval coordination meeting between the two countries reportedly took place in Ankara this week.
Pakistan, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia also share concerns about Iran. While all three prefer diplomacy over military action, they are prepared to strengthen defense coordination if necessary. Turkey is already helping Pakistan modernize its military, including building corvette warships for the navy, upgrading the Pakistan Air Force’s F-16 fleet, sharing drone technology, and seeking participation in its fifth-generation fighter jet program.
Turkey Eyes Joining Pakistan-Saudi Defense Pact
The trilateral discussions come amid ongoing regional security concerns. Pakistan and India agreed to a ceasefire after a brief clash in May, while tensions along Pakistan’s border with Afghanistan remain high. Turkey and Qatar have attempted mediation with limited success.
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia historically maintain close ties based on defense, economic interests, and shared Islamic heritage. Saudi Arabia provides financial and energy support, while Pakistan relies on strong military partnerships.
Turkey is among Pakistan’s largest arms suppliers, accounting for around 11 percent of total arms imports in 2023, according to SIPRI.
Experts say Turkey’s inclusion could further strengthen defense coordination. Joint warship programs, aircraft upgrades, and drone projects already enhance Pakistan-Turkey cooperation. Adding Saudi Arabia could create a unique trilateral alliance balancing financial resources, military capabilities, and technological expertise.
If formalized, this alliance could reinforce regional stability, promote joint military exercises, advance technology sharing, and deter potential aggression. Observers note it could be a major step toward collective security, economic engagement, and strategic stability in South Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.
Turkey’s potential joining of the Pakistan-Saudi defense pact signals a new chapter in regional security cooperation with far-reaching implications.
It is important to note that countries such as Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE have traditionally relied on the United States for their security. However, during the escalation between Israel and Iran, when the US carried out strikes on Iran, Tehran retaliated by attacking an American military base in Qatar. It has turned around the security situation in the Middle East. Thus, the Islamic countries are looking towards strengthening of their security through mutual defense treaties. It is one of the key reason that Turkey Eyes Joining Pakistan-Saudi Defense Pact.
