Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye on Friday reviewed progress towards establishing the institutional structures under the framework of the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement (MJDA), signed between the three nations on August 7.
Pakistan, Saudi, Turkiye FMs review institutional setup under Makkah Agreement
NEW YORK, Sep 25 (APP): Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye on Friday reviewed progress towards establishing the institutional structures under the framework of the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement (MJDA), signed between the three nations on August 7.
The matter was discussed in a meeting between Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, Saudi Foreign Minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud and Turkish Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, held on the sidelines of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly here.
The three foreign ministers also exchanged views on regional and international security issues.
The foreign ministers condemned in the strongest terms the heinous attacks targeting the Holy City of Makkah and civilian and economic facilities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. They commended the vigilance of the Saudi Armed Forces and their ability to defend the Kingdom’s security. They reaffirmed the Kingdom’s right to take such measures as it deems appropriate to defend its security, in accordance with Article 51 of the UN Charter.
The foreign ministers also discussed plans to convene an urgent meeting of the chiefs of staff of the three countries to explore ways to assist the Kingdom under the Makkah Joint Defense Agreement, which stipulates that an attack against any one of its parties shall be considered an attack against all parties.
The Ministers further discussed the current situation in the region, underscoring the importance of upholding the principles of international law, good neighborliness, mutual respect for the sovereignty of states, and non-interference in their internal affairs, as well as ensuring the security and freedom of navigation. They reiterated their determination to work together towards achieving sustainable peace and stability in the region, support efforts towards de-escalation and encourage peaceful resolution to crises.
Earlier, Pakistan had appointed Lt. General (retd) Nauman Mahmood as the first secretary-general under the Makkah Joint Defense Agreement, who will lead the alliance’s General Secretariat, being established in Riyadh.
