Strategic Realignment: Turkey Seeks to Join Pakistan-Saudi Defense Pact

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced on Thursday (January 15) that while no formal agreement has been signed yet, such a coalition would be pivotal for establishing regional security and collective deterrence.

According to reports, Turkey aims to integrate into the defense pact signed between Islamabad and Riyadh last September. Minister Fidan emphasized that Turkey, China, and Saudi Arabia share deep strategic ties with Pakistan, suggesting that an attack on one member could be viewed as aggression against all. This move is seen as a precautionary measure by Ankara, especially amidst growing uncertainty regarding the US commitment to NATO.

The potential alliance marks a new era in Turkey-Saudi relations, moving past years of diplomatic friction toward robust economic and military cooperation. Notably, the two nations held their first-ever naval meeting in Ankara this week. With Turkey already being the second-largest arms supplier to Pakistan, this trilateral cooperation is expected to reshape the balance of power in the Middle East and beyond.