Turkey's parliamentary Foreign Affairs Committee approved a mutual defence agreement with Saudi Arabia and Pakistan on Tuesday, October 27, bringing the three countries closer to a formal military alliance.
The Mecca Joint Defense Agreement, signed on August 7, treats an external armed attack against any member as an attack against all three. It provides for mutual assistance, including potential military support, with the nature of any response to be determined through consultations.
The 16-article treaty also covers joint weapons production, military training, technology transfers, intelligence sharing and counterterrorism cooperation. It is intended to remain in force indefinitely, with members prohibited from withdrawing during the first ten years.
Saudi Arabia and Pakistan have already ratified the agreement. Turkey's Grand National Assembly must still debate and approve it before the treaty can enter into force. No date has been announced for the vote.
Earlier this month, the three countries agreed to begin implementing their collective-defence commitments, including preparations for the rapid deployment of military forces and equipment to Saudi Arabia, subject to their respective national laws.
Turkish officials maintain that the pact is defensive and will not automatically require military intervention. Any deployment of Turkish troops abroad would remain subject to constitutional approval. Opposition lawmakers have nevertheless warned that the agreement could draw Turkey into conflicts involving Saudi Arabia or Pakistan.
The development follows last week's separate Badr defence cooperation agreement between Turkey, Pakistan, Qatar and Indonesia. Turkish officials have confirmed that the two agreements have no formal organisational connection.
