The Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (SMDA) between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan

The signing of the SMDA in Riyadh on September 17, 2025, marks a significant development in Saudi-Pakistani relations despite historical challenges and differences. The agreement was signed by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Pakistani Premier Shahbaz Sharif, with Field Marshal Asim Munir in attendance.

Historical Context and Challenges

• Saudi Arabia and Pakistan share commonalities, but also have significant differences and dissenting threat perceptions.
• Past defense cooperation was robust during 1979-89 with a Pakistani military contingent in Saudi Arabia but later declined due to mutual differences.
• Pakistan has previously limited its military involvement to defending Saudi Arabia's holy sites, declining broader deployments during regional conflicts.

US Involvement and Strategic Implications

• The US has traditionally supported the Saudi-Pakistani defense alliance indirectly.
• Recent diplomatic interactions suggest US involvement in orchestrating the SMDA, with meetings involving US President Trump and Field Marshal Munir.
• The agreement can be seen as a strategic move to maintain influence in West Asia amidst changing geopolitical dynamics.

Motivations and Calculations

Saudi Arabia

 

• The SMDA is seen as a necessary measure following recent regional events, including the Israeli air attack on Qatar.
• Saudi Arabia has traditionally avoided foreign troops on its soil but sees value in the SMDA amid regional security challenges.
• The Kingdom has invested heavily in advanced American weapons to bolster its defenses.

Pakistan

 

• Pakistan views the agreement as an opportunity to leverage Saudi insecurity for defense hardware and economic benefits.
• Islamabad aims to avoid direct military confrontation with Iran, Yemen, or Israel on Saudi behalf.
• The SMDA is expected to have smaller Pakistani military involvement compared to past engagements.

Impact on India

• India is a significant trading partner and crude oil buyer from Saudi Arabia, with robust bilateral relations.
• While the SMDA requires India to stay vigilant, it does not significantly alter India-Saudi relations due to existing diplomatic and economic ties.
• Riyadh reportedly took India into confidence over the SMDA, indicating a balanced approach in its regional relations.

In conclusion, the SMDA represents a strategic alliance with complex implications for regional geopolitics. While it strengthens Saudi-Pakistani ties, it also necessitates vigilant diplomacy from India to maintain its strategic interests in the region.