Media: Mecca Agreement could create new defence hub in Middle East

The Mecca Agreement on joint defence between Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Pakistan could reshape not only the military balance in the Middle East but also the structure of the global arms market, The National Interest writes.

According to the publication, the combination of Türkiye’s defence technologies, Saudi Arabia’s financial resources and Pakistan’s military expertise could lead to the creation of a major new defence-industrial complex.

The authors noted that each of the three countries has its own area of specialisation. Türkiye possesses advanced technologies, including in the field of unmanned systems; Saudi Arabia has substantial financial resources; while Pakistan offers manufacturing, repair and logistical capabilities, including the production of armoured vehicles, weapons and ammunition.

In the longer term, the countries could establish a joint export platform under which Riyadh would provide financing, Ankara would supply high-tech systems, and Islamabad would scale up production while offering competitive prices. This could allow the alliance to strengthen its position primarily in markets where countries have limited defence budgets.

At the same time, The National Interest believes the new partnership would not necessarily become a direct competitor to the United States. It could complement the US military presence in the region while simultaneously creating an independent centre for arms production and exports.

The analysis comes against the backdrop of the trilateral defence agreement signed by Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan on August 7, known as the “Mecca Agreement.”

By Jeyhun Aghazada