Decision on Inclusion of More Countries in Makkah Defense Pact Will Follow Agreed Mandate: Khawaja Asif
Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye alliance is not directed against any country; objective is collective defense
Islamabad: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has said that the inclusion of additional countries in the Makkah Defense Pact will be decided according to the agreed mandate, terms and procedure.
Speaking to the media at Parliament House, Khawaja Asif said detailed discussions were held on the establishment of the proposed secretariat under the Makkah Defense Pact, including its structure and mandate. The meeting also discussed the creation of various positions and departments, including that of the secretary-general.
He said the terms, procedure and timeframe for admitting new countries into the alliance were also discussed, but these matters have not yet been finalized. He added that Pakistan’s proposed draft regarding the alliance’s structure had received considerable appreciation.
According to Khawaja Asif, the final shape of the secretariat and organisational structure is expected to be prepared within the next two to three weeks. The three member countries will meet again in early October to finalize the remaining matters.
The defence minister said it would later be decided whether new countries would be admitted immediately or after an interim period. He added that the basic structure of the alliance could become operational within approximately one to one-and-a-half months.
He clarified that Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye are currently the three founding members of the alliance, while a formal mechanism will be developed for the future inclusion of additional Islamic countries.
Khawaja Asif stressed that the alliance is not aggressive or directed against any country. Its objective is to strengthen defence cooperation, mutual protection and collective security among the three member states.
He said the alliance was not established to fight or carry out aggression against anyone. If any one of the three member countries comes under attack, it would be considered an attack on all three, with the aim of ensuring mutual defence and protection.
According to the defence minister, the alliance has been established to jointly address common threats and challenges. Any decision regarding the inclusion of additional countries will be made in accordance with the agreed mandate and conditions.
