THE army chief’s official visit to Saudi Arabia has become the focal point of Arab and Middle Eastern media, as General Syed Asim Munir engages in high-level discussions with key Saudi leaders. General Syed Asim Munir held discussions with key Saudi leaders, including Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, focusing on regional peace and bilateral defence cooperation. Prince Mohammad Bin Salman reaffirmed the strong bond between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, pledging to enhance their historical ties and Saudi Arabia’s support for Pakistan. COAS expressed gratitude for the warm support from the Saudi leadership.
This marks General Syed Asim Munir’s second visit since assuming the position of Army Chief. During his initial visit, amidst Pakistan’s severe economic crisis, he successfully secured financial aid from Saudi Arabia, addressing the urgent needs of the nation. With a relationship spanning over 50 years, Pakistani civilian and military leaders consistently make Saudi Arabia their first visit after assuming office, including Prime Minister Sharif and his predecessor Khan in 2018 and 2022 respectively. Former army chiefs, General Qamar Javed Bajwa and General Raheel Sharif, followed suit. General Munir’s past service in Saudi Arabia underscores the strong defense cooperation between the two nations, with extensive bilateral military exercises and a longstanding training presence in the kingdom.
The relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia is characterized by deep-rooted ties spanning political, economic and strategic realms. Recent years have seen renewed economic cooperation, marked by significant investment pledges and bilateral agreements. Despite occasional challenges, both countries are poised to strengthen their relationship further, adapting to evolving geopolitical dynamics and forging new avenues for collaboration in the future.
The reign of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman has brought newfound optimism, particularly evident in the revitalization of bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, marked by progressive initiatives. The visit of the Crown Prince in February 2019 solidified commitments to enhance political, diplomatic, military, economic, cultural and religious ties between the two nations. Bilateral trade, predominantly comprising oil imports from Saudi Arabia and exports of various goods from Pakistan, stands at approximately $2.5 billion, underscored by a preferential trade agreement initiated in January 2018 in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030. This visionary economic blueprint, spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman, aims to diversify Saudi Arabia’s economy beyond oil, focusing on sectors such as education, health, tourism and infrastructure, positioning the Kingdom as a global economic powerhouse with far-reaching benefits for the Arab world.
The military cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia has been a cornerstone of their relationship, extending back several decades. Notably, Pakistan has played a vital role in bolstering the capabilities of the Saudi armed forces through various forms of assistance. This collaboration includes Pakistan’s provision of military training, participation in joint military exercises and the deployment of Pakistani troops to Saudi Arabia during times of need. Over the years, Pakistan has trained thousands of Saudi military personnel and has been actively involved in enhancing the professionalism and readiness of the Saudi armed forces. Furthermore, Pakistan has consistently stood by Saudi Arabia in ensuring the security of the kingdom, particularly safeguarding the Holy Mosques during times of conflict or external threats.
The strategic partnership between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan has stood the test of time, particularly evident in their robust defence cooperation. In a bid to strengthen their military ties, Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia recently conducted the joint military drill AL BATTAR-I, “On Job Training of Royal Saudi Land Forces with Pakistan Army” held in August 2023 and February 24 respectively. These comprehensive trainings aimed at enhancing collaborative efforts and leveraging each other’s expertise in both conventional and sub-conventional operations. The culmination of the trainings featured a field manoeuvre and battle inoculation exercise, showcasing the coordinated efforts of air and ground forces.
The independent research confirms the enduring and cohesive defence cooperation between the defence forces of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and Pakistan. High-level officials from both nations have consistently engaged in frequent visits and discussions to bolster understanding and agreements on defence and foreign affairs. Regular joint military exercises enhance synergy, coordination and preparedness for multidimensional counter-terrorism operations, while bilateral intelligence sharing fosters trust. With defence relations prioritized by civil and military leadership, both countries have managed past crises, progressed and forged new avenues, strengthening their relationship for the security of the two Holy Mosques and territorial integrity.
Famous scholar Amanda Carter highlighted the significance of defence diplomacy, stating, ‘In the corridors of diplomacy, the voice of the military speaks volumes, echoing the commitment to peace through strength and the resolve to defend shared values. The defence diplomacy between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia exemplifies Amanda Carter’s quote, emphasizing the pivotal role of the military in advocating for peace through strength and demonstrating unwavering dedication to upholding shared values in regional security efforts.
—The writer is contributing columnist.
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