Islamic countries welcome Makkah Joint Defence Agreement

Islamabad (Web Desk): Islamic countries and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) have warmly welcomed the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement signed between Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Türkiye, calling it an important step towards strengthening regional security and cooperation.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said the agreement, based on the principle of collective defence, would enhance cooperation in security, defence, and joint projects in the defence sector.

He clarified that the agreement was not aimed at any country and would remain open to all brotherly nations seeking peace and stability.

President Erdoğan expressed hope that the agreement would become a source of peace, prosperity, blessings, and stability for the entire region.

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan also congratulated the three countries on the signing of the agreement, describing it as a significant milestone for peace, development, and the prosperity of their people.

He said the agreement would assist in addressing shared threats that could affect regional stability.

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) termed the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement a significant strategic development.

OIC Secretary-General Hissein Ibrahim Taha welcomed the initiative and extended full support, praising the leadership and efforts of Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Türkiye in reaching the agreement.

The Foreign Ministry of Bahrain also welcomed the defence agreement, appreciating the strong defence capabilities and military expertise of the three countries. It said the agreement reflects their commitment to regional security and cooperation.

Yemen also expressed support for the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement, calling it an important milestone in defence cooperation between Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Türkiye. Yemen’s Foreign Ministry stated that the agreement reflects joint efforts to address common security challenges and holds particular importance in view of security concerns in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and Bab al-Mandab Strait.

Somalia welcomed the agreement as well, with its Ministry of Defence stating that it would help establish a reliable strategic partnership to tackle shared security challenges.

The ministry added that the agreement could contribute significantly to regional peace, stability, and international security.

Sheikh Professor Dr Abdul Rahman bin Abdulaziz Al-Sudais, President of Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, also welcomed the agreement, saying that its conclusion in the sacred surroundings of Makkah gives it special importance.