VOI World/ Astha Pandey
A Strategic Mutual Defence Pact recently signed by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. This binds both the countries into a joint security framework. While Islamabad has projected it as a milestone in bilateral defence ties, Saudi Arabia has clarified that the agreement should not be seen as a shift in its ties with other regional powers, including India.
However, India maintains a strong economic and strategic ties with Saudi Arabia, whereas the relationship India and Pakistan remains tense and marked by historical conflicts. The newly signed Saudi-Pakistan defence pact, which commits both nations to respond jointly to external threats, raises concerns for India, as it could complicate regional security dynamics and embolden Pakistan in its strategic calculations. While Saudi Arabia has clarifi ed that the agreement does not affect its relations with other countries, including India, New Delhi is carefully assessing the potential implications for national security and regional stability, keeping diplomatic channels active while safeguarding its interests.
Indian Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addressed the media regarding this deal/pact, “We are aware of the reports regarding the pact and will study its implications for India’s security and regional stability.”
He added that New Delhi would “carefully assess” the pact’s consequences, not only for India’s own security but also for peace and stability across South Asia and beyond. Jaiswal reaffi rmed that the government remains “firmly committed to safeguarding India’s national interests and maintaining comprehensive security across all fronts.”
Geopolitical analysts say India’s cautious stance refl ects a careful mix of alertness and diplomatic prudence. While the pact is unlikely to change India’s immediate security calculations, its symbolic signifi cance could shift regional perceptions and infl uence strategic thinking in South Asia.
At the same time, New Delhi is keeping a close watch on developments, ensuring diplomatic communication channels remain open, and taking all necessary measures to protect national interests in every domain.
