Trilateral Defence Talks Kick Off in Istanbul Among Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye
By Editor • August 31, 2026 • 1 min read
In a significant diplomatic move, leaders from Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye convened in Istanbul on Monday for the inaugural meeting under their Makkah Joint Defence Agreement. The gathering, held at the opulent Ciragan Palace, featured key representatives including Pakistan's Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar.
Turkish officials were led by Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, while Saudi Arabia was represented by Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan. The meeting marks a pivotal step towards enhancing trilateral strategic and defence cooperation among the nations.
A statement from Pakistan's Foreign Office emphasized the significance of this collaboration, stating it reflects Pakistan's enduring friendships with Turkiye and Saudi Arabia and its commitment to regional stability. Discussions are expected to focus on strengthening defence capabilities, military interoperability, and cooperation in the defence sector.
Prior to the main event, bilateral meetings took place, with CDF Munir engaging with Turkish officials to discuss expanding joint defence initiatives. As these countries forge closer ties, the Makkah pact, signed on August 7, reinforces a collective security framework, treating any aggression against one as an attack on all.
Source: www.dawn.com
