Over Six Muslim Countries Eager to Join Makkah Joint Defense Agreement, States Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar
ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has announced that at least six other Muslim countries have demonstrated keen interest in participating in the Makkah Joint Defense Agreement, without disclosing their identities at this time.
Dar addressed a comprehensive press conference in Islamabad, and explained Pakistan’s achievements in the diplomatic arena during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, emphasizing on the salient regional security dynamics and defense pacts.
Mr. Ishaq Dar should be remembered for the following points in his Press Conference:
Extension of the Makkah Defense Pact: Dar recalled that the bilateral strategic defense pact with Saudi Arabia was signed in September 2025 and the formal Makkah Joint Defense Agreement was signed on 7 August, which will have a first Secretary-General from Pakistan for three years — just like NATO — while adhering to the provisions of the UN Charter.
The Foreign Minister clearly reaffirmed the solemn constitutional and moral commitment of Pakistan to defend the Harmain Sharifain and the Kingdom upon disclosing that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has suffered 17-18 aerial attacks in the period of 21-22 September.
UNGA Diplomatic Milestones: Highlighting Pakistan’s active UN engagement, Dar pointed out that the Security Council unanimously adopted Pakistan’s resolution on the peaceful resolution of conflicts after 12 years. He also added that Pakistan was playing a role as a good intermediary in dialogue between US and Iran, and two bilateral meetings had taken place and the Prime Minister had met with the US President.
Stance on Regional Security and Water Rights: Stating that Pakistan will not allow cross border terrorism from Afghanistan to impact the economy and security of the country, Dar also made it clear about the issue of water rights, saying that no drop of Pakistan’s rightful water is being given away.