Makkah Accord defensive in nature, not directed against any country: DPM/FM Dar

ISLAMABAD, Aug 10 (APP): Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Monday reiterated that the Makkah Accord was defensive in nature, and it was not directed against any country.

“Its purpose is to strengthen collective deterrence against external aggression and reinforce our capacity to defend our sovereignty, territorial integrity and peoples,” the deputy prime minister said in a statement issued by the Foreign Office.

Extending warm felicitations to the nation on the signing of the “Makkah Joint Defence Agreement” (Makkah Accord) by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye in the blessed city of Makkah Al-Mukarramah, he said this historic accord reflected the depth of our brotherly bonds, shared values and common commitment to peace, security and stability, the deputy prime minister said in his message to the Nation.

He said the signing of the Makkah Accord was a significant milestone in Pakistan’s longstanding strategic relationships with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Türkiye. “It embodies our shared resolve to strengthen cooperation in addressing the evolving peace and security challenges facing our region.”

The DPM/FM said the Makkah Accord provided that an armed attack against any one of the three countries shall be regarded as an attack against all, consistent with the inherent right of individual and collective self-defence under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter.

He underscored that Pakistan remained firmly committed to the peaceful resolution of disputes, respect for sovereignty and international law, and the pursuit of regional peace, stability and prosperity. “The Makkah Accord is not an instrument of confrontation, but an expression of our collective commitment to peace through strength, solidarity and mutual respect.”

He said under the leadership of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and the Foreign Office of Pakistan have played pivotal role in bringing this historic Makkah Accord to fruition. “The leadership and vision in safeguarding Pakistan’s national interests and strengthening our strategic partnerships with Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, is commendable,” he added.