Saudi Chief of Staff Visits Pakistan, Holds Key Meetings with PM Shehbaz and Army Chief Munir – Strategic Defense Deal on the Horizon

Islamabad: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have once again taken significant steps to strengthen their defense ties. Saudi Arabia’s Chief of Staff, General Fayyad bin Hameed Al-Ruwaili, met with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief General Asim Munir in a series of high-level discussions focused on enhancing strategic cooperation between the two nations. The meetings primarily centered on defense collaboration and counter-terrorism efforts, raising expectations of a potential major defense agreement.

This visit comes on the heels of a landmark agreement signed in September, when Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visited Saudi Arabia. Under that NATO-style defense pact, an attack on one country is considered an attack on both, marking a historic step in bilateral military cooperation. Experts suggest that the recent meetings could pave the way for announcing a new, expanded defense deal.

Emphasis on Strengthening Ties

According to Pakistani media, PM Shehbaz praised the joint efforts of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia in combating terrorism and promoting regional stability. Welcoming General Fayyad, he highlighted that the relationship between the two countries is grounded in shared faith, common values, and mutual trust.

General Fayyad, in turn, commended PM Shehbaz and General Munir for their leadership. A statement from the Pakistani Army confirmed that General Fayyad held talks with General Munir at the Army Headquarters, discussing issues of mutual interest and ways to deepen long-term strategic military cooperation.

Military Leadership Talks

The statement further noted that both military leaders reviewed emerging global and regional security dynamics and explored concrete measures to strengthen armed forces collaboration. They reaffirmed their commitment to bolstering defense and security relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

The visit underscores both nations’ shared focus on defense, stability, and counter-terrorism, signaling that Islamabad and Riyadh may soon announce another strategic milestone in their military partnership.