Strategic Strength
Strategic Strength: In the 1960s, Pakistan, Iran and Turkey (now called Türkiye) created the Regional Cooperation for Development (RCD). All three countries belonged to the Central Treaty Organisation (CENTO). They signed the Istanbul Agreement to promote trade and development. They also wanted to improve political cooperation.
Security Cooperation Evolution
However, RCD showed the gap between ambition and achievement. Financial problems weakened it. Protectionist policies also limited cooperation. The three countries had different priorities. Weak administration created further problems. As a result, RCD never became a strong system of economic cooperation.
The recently signed Makkah Joint Defence Agreement takes a similar approach. This time, it focuses mainly on security. Saudi Arabia replaces Iran in this new partnership. The agreement did not appear suddenly. Pakistan and Saudi Arabia had already signed a Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement last year. The new agreement expands that security relationship. Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye have strong military and economic resources. They also have growing technological capabilities.
Institutional Security Realities
If the three countries organise this cooperation well, it can go beyond political statements. They can conduct joint military exercises. They can share intelligence. They can work together against terrorism. They can improve maritime security and cyber-defence. They can also cooperate in defence production and technology. These steps can create a stronger regional security system.
RCD gives an important lesson. Agreements cannot succeed when institutions remain weak. The new agreement will face the same test. Its success will depend on implementation, not on the importance of its declaration.
Strategic Partner Advantage
The agreement is especially important for Pakistan. It gives Islamabad stronger security ties with two influential countries. Saudi Arabia remains an important economic partner. Türkiye has become a trusted defence and technology partner. These ties can give Pakistan greater strategic space in a changing international system.
Pakistan must approach this opportunity carefully. A defence agreement cannot replace economic strength. National power needs a strong economy. It also needs technological progress, political stability and effective institutions.
Strategic Economic Diversification
Pakistan should use this relationship to promote industrial cooperation. It should seek technology transfers and more investment. It should also expand energy cooperation and trade. These areas can create long-term benefits beyond defence.
The agreement does not mean a rejection of the West. All three countries still have important relations with Western states. Instead, the agreement shows strategic diversification. Regional powers want to protect their interests without depending entirely on one outside power.
Strategic Focus Shift
This marks a major change from the RCD period. In the 1960s, countries focused on development and economic progress. In 2026, they focus more on deterrence and maritime security. They also focus on terrorism, technological warfare, energy security and strategic autonomy.
Despite this change, the basic idea remains the same. Regional countries need to turn common interests into common strength.
Action Drives Alliances
The Makkah Agreement is not the end of the story. It is only the beginning. The three countries must now turn words into action. They must produce real results. Their actions will decide whether the agreement becomes another short-lived arrangement or a lasting regional partnership. For nations, a promise matters only when they keep it over time.
Published in Dawn, 19th August 2026
