What Does the Mecca Pact Deliver Pakistan?
The mutual defense agreement gives Islamabad a boost in the Middle East, with mixed results closer to home.
The Mecca Pact, a security agreement between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, aims to enhance Islamabad's position in the Middle East's emerging security architecture. However, this pact may not significantly benefit Pakistan in its own backyard, where it faces challenges from hostile neighbors. The agreement, inked last week, brings more influence to Muslim-majority Pakistan in the Middle East, which is home to many of its top allies, hydrocarbon imports, and millions of expats.
It could also strengthen Pakistan's relationship with the United States, as the Trump administration may welcome a deal that advances collective deterrence. However, the pact is less beneficial closer to home, as Pakistan's allies, including Saudi Arabia and Turkey, are unlikely to come to its aid in conflicts. The agreement may encourage active mediation roles for Saudi Arabia and Turkey in Pakistan's regional conflicts, particularly those involving Afghanistan.
Pakistan hopes the pact will give it a stronger case to maintain neutrality and establish itself as an Iran war mediator. Meanwhile, India and Bangladesh are experiencing strain in their relations due to Bangladesh's government inviting former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to a virtual event hosted by the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of South Asia in New Delhi.
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