Dr. Muhammad Shahzad Ashfaq
Post-Doctorate (Peace Education)
International Islamic University Islamabad
One of the key shared values between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia is their strong Islamic identity. Both countries have Islam as the state religion and hold sacred the principles of the Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H). Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have a relationship that is deeply rooted in history, culture, and religion. The two countries share many commonalities which have allowed them to maintain a strong and enduring partnership. Share a longstanding bilateral relationship rooted in cultural and strategic ties.
Both countries have collaborated on various fronts to enhance regional security and stability. In recent years, the alliance between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia has increasingly focused on promoting peace and combating extremism making significant strides towards creating a safer future for the region and beyond. The multifaceted nature of the alliance between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia highlighting the strategic importance of their partnership in fostering peace and security.
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have a relationship that is deeply rooted in history, culture, and religion. The two countries share many commonalities which have allowed them to maintain a strong and enduring partnership.
The alliance between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia is built on a strong foundation of shared values and common strategic interests. Both countries have a history of cooperation on matters of security, defense and counter-terrorism. Pakistan with its well-trained military and expertise in combating extremism has been a key partner for Saudi Arabia in addressing security challenges in the region. Saudi Arabia on the other hand has been a vital economic partner for Pakistan providing financial assistance in various sectors of the economy.
One of the key areas of collaboration between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia is counter- terrorism. Both countries have been actively involved in counter-terrorism operations and have cooperated closely in sharing intelligence, conducting joint military exercises, and implementing measures to combat extremism. The Saudi-led Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) which includes Pakistan as a member aims to enhance coordination and cooperation among member states to combat terrorism and extremism.
Furthermore, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have also worked together to promote peace and stability in conflict-ridden regions such as the Middle East and South Asia. The two countries have played a constructive role in mediating disputes and fostering dialogue to resolve conflicts peacefully. Saudi Arabia has supported Pakistan’s efforts to facilitate peace talks in Afghanistan, while Pakistan has stood by Saudi Arabia in its efforts to enhance regional stability in the Gulf.
Security and peace between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia extends to economic cooperation and development. Saudi Arabia has made significant investments in Pakistan’s energy, infrastructure or other key sectors contributing to economic growth and stability in the country. The Saudi-Pakistani Joint Economic Commission (JEC) serves as a platform for enhancing bilateral trade and economic cooperation between the two countries.
Despite the progress made in the Pakistan-Saudi Arabia alliance, both countries
continue to face complex regional challenges that require sustained cooperation and coordination. The rise of extremism, the threat of terrorism, and regional conflicts pose significant risks to peace and stability in the region. By working together, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia can address these challenges more effectively leveraging their strategic partnership to promote peace, dialogue, and conflict resolution. Additionally engaging with other regional players and international partners, both countries can contribute to broader efforts to enhance security and stability in the Middle East and South Asia
