Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye Sign a Joint Defence Agreement

Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye have signed a joint defence agreement that commits the three countries to supporting one another in the event of an external armed attack.

In this article we set out what the pact says about an attack, how long it lasts, and where ratification stands. Here is everything you need to know.

What the joint defence agreement commits them to

Under the pact, an attack on one member is treated as an attack on all. Assistance is determined according to the situation and available resources. The update does not set a fixed form of assistance.

The agreement will remain in force indefinitely. Members cannot withdraw during the first 10 years after it comes into effect.

Where ratification stands

Türkiye has submitted the pact to its parliament for ratification. The update does not say that Pakistan or Saudi Arabia have completed the same step, and it does not say the agreement has already come into effect.

Our verdict

The three countries have signed a joint defence agreement covering an external armed attack, with help decided case by case. It is written to last indefinitely once in effect, with a 10-year bar on withdrawal. Türkiye's parliamentary ratification is the step the update records.

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