Much of what is being written about the defence agreement between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia is either factually incorrect or based on a poor understanding of the relationship. In some cases, it is clearly driven by bias. It is therefore important to place this agreement in its proper context.

To begin with, Pakistan’s relationship with Saudi Arabia does not depend on any single defence arrangement. It neither began with such agreements nor can it be reduced to them. Looking at this relationship only through a defence lens misses the larger picture.

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are not close because they have signed defence agreements. The reality is the other way around. These agreements exist because the two countries have shared a close and trusted relationship for decades. This relationship is not recent, nor is it transactional. It is long standing, stable, and deeply rooted.

The defence agreement is therefore not the basis of the relationship. It is simply one part of it. It reflects an existing understanding rather than creating one.

In fact, ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia go well beyond defence cooperation. There is political trust, economic engagement, religious affinity, and strong people to people contact. Defence cooperation is only one aspect of a much wider relationship.

A brief look at history makes this even clearer. Pakistan has maintained a military presence in Saudi Arabia since the 1970s, at times exceeding 10,000 troops. During the Gulf War of 1990 to 1991, Pakistani forces were involved in securing the holy sites. Over the years, Pakistan has also continued to send troops on rotation for training and advisory roles. Reports suggest that around 1,500 to 2,000 personnel are currently serving in such capacities. In addition,........

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