Türkiye and Qatar Likely to Join Pakistan Saudi Arabia Defence Pact, Says Minister
Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has indicated that Türkiye and Qatar could soon join the existing strategic defence pact between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, a move that analysts believe may reshape the security dynamics of the Middle East and South Asia. The proposed expansion of the alliance has sparked discussions in diplomatic and strategic circles, with some observers describing it as the emergence of an “Islamic NATO.”
Speaking during a television interview, Asif said the arrangement involving the additional countries was currently under discussion and nearing finalisation. He welcomed the possibility of both Türkiye and Qatar becoming part of the agreement, calling it a significant development for regional cooperation and collective security.
The original Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement was signed in 2025 between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. Under the pact, both nations agreed to treat aggression against one member as aggression against the other, in a structure similar to NATO’s collective defence clause. The agreement was signed in Riyadh during Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s official visit to the kingdom.
The possibility of expanding the alliance comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions in the region, especially after the recent conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran. Analysts believe countries in the Middle East are increasingly seeking new security arrangements amid uncertainty over long term Western military commitments in the region.
If Türkiye and Qatar formally join the pact, the alliance would combine several major strategic strengths. Türkiye would contribute its advanced defence manufacturing capabilities and NATO level military experience, while Pakistan brings nuclear deterrence and ballistic missile expertise. Saudi Arabia and Qatar, on the other hand, would provide substantial financial resources and energy influence. Experts say such a coalition could significantly alter the balance of power across the Muslim world and beyond.
Türkiye’s inclusion is being viewed as particularly important because the country already maintains one of the strongest militaries within NATO. Over the past few years, Ankara has rapidly expanded its defence exports, including drones, missile systems and military technology partnerships with several countries. Türkiye and Pakistan have also strengthened military cooperation through joint exercises and defence agreements in recent years.
The proposed alliance has also drawn attention in India, where strategic experts are closely monitoring developments. Retired Indian Air Marshal Anil Chopra reportedly stated that an expanded “Islamic NATO” could complicate India’s security environment, especially given the growing defence ties between Pakistan and Türkiye. He noted that India may further deepen strategic cooperation with countries such as Greece, Cyprus and Israel in response to changing regional alignments.
Observers believe the evolving alliance could influence several ongoing geopolitical issues, including regional conflicts, defence procurement, intelligence sharing and future military cooperation among Muslim majority countries. Some analysts also see it as an attempt to create an independent regional security structure less dependent on Western powers.
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While no official timeline has yet been announced for Türkiye and Qatar joining the pact, the discussions have already generated significant international attention. Governments and security experts across the world are expected to closely monitor the next steps, particularly as tensions continue to rise across the Middle East and neighbouring regions.
