In an interview with a US broadcaster, Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said Pakistani troops have been stationed in Saudi Arabia for decades and all operational decisions under the pact will rest with field commanders; Pakistan will keep pushing for a peaceful end to Iran-US tensions.
DG ISPR Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry has said the joint Mecca defence pact between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye guarantees peace and stability in the region, stressing that its core purpose — the defence of Saudi Arabia — will be fulfilled at all costs.
Speaking to a US broadcaster, the military spokesperson said Pakistani troops have been deployed in Saudi Arabia for decades across various sectors and capabilities, making the pact a formal expression of long-standing defence cooperation rather than a sudden or unexpected move. He noted that this military presence spans multiple domains and has been a consistent feature of the bilateral relationship.
He explained that implementation of the agreement would be entirely defensive in nature. Operational commanders will decide on troop deployments, procedures and how the pact is translated into practical action on the ground, he said, adding that the same applies to the manner in which the agreement is utilised.
Lt Gen Chaudhry said hostile elements in the region would think many times before acting on any malicious designs in light of the agreement. He emphasised that the pact is not aimed at declaring any state a friend or a foe — its sole objective is the defence of Saudi Arabia, and that defence will be ensured.
<h2>Pakistan’s stance on Iran-US tensions</h2> On the rising tensions between Iran and the United States, the DG ISPR said Pakistan is actively working to end hostilities and help the two countries reach an agreement, and would continue playing this constructive role in the future. Islamabad wants differences narrowed, a peaceful path found through negotiations, and no further spread of the conflict.
He said Pakistan has played an important role in the US-Iran ceasefire with complete impartiality, as its real interest lies in regional peace and stability. Expanding the war would benefit no party, he added, underlining that Pakistan’s efforts are driven by the goal of lasting regional calm.
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A senior PMDC official said the National Registration Examination Step-I was pushed from October 11 to November 8 because of the prevailing political situation and possible road closures, following the start of a long march towards the capital.
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