More countries reportedly seek to join Pakistan-Saudi-Turkiye Makkah Pact
At a glance
- Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye signed the Makkah Pact for mutual defence.
- Pakistani officials have called for expanding it to trade and technology.
- Bangladesh, Qatar, and Iran have now reportedly shown interest in joining the alliance.
Story so far
The Makkah Pact, a mutual defence agreement signed by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye on August 7, 2026, is reportedly attracting interest from other nations. Available reports indicate Bangladesh, Qatar, and Iran may seek to join the alliance. The development follows calls from senior Pakistani officials, including Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, to broaden the pact's scope beyond military cooperation into areas like trade, technology, and education. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has previously stated a future meeting on the pact could be held in Pakistan.
Latest development
Reports have emerged suggesting that Bangladesh, Qatar, and Iran are interested in joining the Makkah Pact, a strategic alliance between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye. Additionally, Pakistan Ulema Council Chairman Hafiz Tahir Ashrafi has publicly commented on the pact's significance.
Latest updates
In new developments, reports suggest that several other countries, including Bangladesh, Qatar, and Iran, have expressed interest in joining the Makkah Pact. Separately, Pakistan Ulema Council Chairman Hafiz Tahir Ashrafi has also commented on the strategic partnership, emphasizing its importance.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Friday stated that the next meeting concerning the Makkah Pact could potentially be held in Pakistan.
Sources and updates
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Makkah Pact must expand to trade, technology, education: Ahsan
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