Saudi envoy and Pakistan army chief discuss defence ties under Makkah pact

Saudi Arabia's newly appointed ambassador to Pakistan, Rajeh Tami Albugamy, met Pakistan Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir at the General Headquarters in Rawalpindi on 19 October 2026 to discuss defence cooperation and regional security.

What Happened

Both officials said they are pleased with the advances made under the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement and highlighted the need to deepen military collaboration, institutional links and strategic coordination.

Reaction

Munir praised Albugamy's appointment and noted that his work is likely to add to the long‑standing brotherly ties that rest on shared faith, trust and a strategic partnership. The army also reiterated Pakistan's readiness to give any assistance required to safeguard Saudi Arabia's sovereignty, territory and holy sites as Houthi attacks on the Gulf nation increase. The discussion came after an army spokesman earlier pledged that Pakistan would extend all necessary help to protect Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty, territory and holy places, amid rising Houthi attacks on the Gulf country.

Context

The Makkah Joint Defence Agreement, signed by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey in August, obliges the three members to treat an attack on one as an attack on all, linking their security policies more tightly.