Former Pakistani special representative for Afghanistan Asif Durrani has said closer defence cooperation between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey could contribute to a broader regional security framework and reduce reliance on outside powers.
Writing on X on Friday, August 7, Durrani described the proposed arrangement as a potential foundation for a new security structure spanning parts of South and West Asia. He said greater cooperation among regional states could give them a larger role in addressing security challenges and longstanding conflicts.
Durrani called the proposed pact a potential “first solid foundation” for a new regional security structure. He argued that sustained cooperation could eventually extend beyond military coordination to wider efforts aimed at promoting stability and resolving regional disputes.
His comments come as Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey have sought closer strategic coordination amid wider security tensions across the Middle East and South Asia. The three countries have maintained longstanding diplomatic and economic ties, while their security interests increasingly overlap on issues including regional conflicts, terrorism and maritime security.
The proposed defence arrangement also comes against a backdrop of growing debate among regional powers over security cooperation and the role of external military powers in the Middle East and South Asia. Any formal agreement, however, would depend on the terms agreed by the three governments and the extent of their military commitments.
Durrani also pointed to the Palestinian issue as an example of a longstanding regional conflict that could benefit from greater involvement by countries in the region. He argued that stronger regional cooperation could create mechanisms for addressing disputes that have remained unresolved for decades.
The proposed pact could have implications beyond the three countries if it develops into a broader security partnership. Pakistan maintains close defence ties with Saudi Arabia, while Turkey has expanded its defence cooperation and military relationships across the region in recent years.
However, Durrani’s comments represent his assessment of the potential implications of the proposed arrangement and do not establish the final scope or objectives of any agreement.
