Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said the recently signed Pakistan-Saudi Arabia-Türkiye Joint Defence Agreement will support peace, development and prosperity across the region.
He made the remarks while chairing a Federal Cabinet meeting in Islamabad on Monday.
The agreement was signed in Makkah by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Agreement Builds on Defence Cooperation
Shehbaz Sharif described the agreement as an extension of longstanding defence cooperation among Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye.
He noted that Pakistan’s armed forces have worked alongside Saudi forces for years to help safeguard the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah.
Moreover, he said the new agreement had remained under discussion for several years before its finalization.
The prime minister also praised Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for their efforts in completing the agreement.
PM Says Pact Seeks Peace
Shehbaz Sharif stressed that the agreement does not target any country.
Instead, he said its purpose is to promote peace, progress and prosperity.
The prime minister also highlighted the broader importance of regional stability. He said stronger cooperation among the three countries could contribute to development and security.
Tribute to Security Personnel
During the cabinet meeting, Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to security personnel who lost their lives in recent terrorist attacks across Pakistan.
He specifically remembered Major Hafiz Ehsan Elahi, Captain Hamza Akram and DSP Diyar Khan, along with other martyrs.
He prayed for the departed souls and expressed condolences to their families.
Furthermore, the prime minister said security forces were continuing operations against militants. He expressed confidence that their sacrifices would ultimately lead to a safer and more peaceful Pakistan.
PM Addresses Azad Kashmir Elections
Shehbaz Sharif also discussed the elections in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
He said the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) had secured a clear majority in seats announced so far in Mirpur and Muzaffarabad. He also referred to reserved seats for Kashmiris living in Pakistan.
The prime minister thanked voters for supporting the PML-N. He expressed confidence that Azad Kashmir would see further development under the leadership of Muhammad Nawaz Sharif.
Dialogue Urged on Kashmir Issues
The prime minister also addressed recent unrest in Azad Kashmir.
He said the government would not allow lawlessness and called for dialogue to resolve outstanding issues.
Moreover, he said those seeking changes to reserved seats should allow the electoral process to continue. They could then present their concerns before the newly elected assembly for resolution under the Constitution and law.
Shehbaz Sharif said the government would continue talks with those willing to pursue peaceful solutions. However, he warned that disorder would not be permitted.
Pakistan Prepares for Independence Day
The prime minister also spoke about preparations for Pakistan’s Independence Day on August 14.
He said people across the country were preparing to celebrate the occasion with traditional enthusiasm.
Federal and provincial governments will also participate in the celebrations and organize events to mark the national day.
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