Mecca Alliance agrees steps to boost collective defense, regional stability

Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey agreed on Monday to take further steps to institutionalize cooperation under the Mecca Alliance, pledging to strengthen collective defense and contribute to peace and stability in the region.

In a joint statement following the first meeting of the alliance’s Political and Defense Strategic Committee in Istanbul, the three countries said the meeting marked an important step toward moving the Mecca Alliance from signing to implementation.

The three countries reaffirmed the defensive nature of their partnership and their commitment to mutual respect for state sovereignty. They also pledged to continue efforts to promote de-escalation and restraint.

The statement said the countries had agreed to enhance their defense capabilities and strengthen deterrence and collective defense. Cooperation will also include defense manufacturing and the development of production capabilities and technologies.

The three countries also agreed to establish a secretariat based in Saudi Arabia and headed by a secretary-general to support their work under the alliance. Pakistan will lead the secretariat during its initial three-year term.

Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey said they were determined to implement the agreement in pursuit of peace and stability and would work to make further contributions to regional security.

The three countries also agreed to promote peace both within the region and beyond it.