Ankara: The Trkiye-Pakistan-Saudi Arabia defense pact aims to boost joint military capabilities and does not identify any country as a common enemy or adversary, the Turkish Defense Ministry said Thursday. Speaking at the ministry's weekly press briefing, spokesperson Rear Adm. Zeki Akturk highlighted the active role of the Turkish Armed Forces in promoting regional and global peace through various cooperative initiatives.
According to Anadolu Agency, Akturk discussed the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement signed on Aug. 7, which seeks to strengthen the existing friendly relations among the three nations through institutionalized defense and security cooperation. The agreement's primary objectives include enhancing regional security, improving military cooperation, and bolstering joint crisis response capabilities.
Akturk emphasized that the agreement is defensive in nature and entails no identification of a common adversary. It proposes the establishment of strategic political and military mechanisms involving high-level officials to ensure seamless coordination among the three countries. Military cooperation is expected to evolve gradually, starting with command-post and field exercises, and progressing to joint exercises across various military domains.
The spokesman noted the agreement's focus on defense industry collaboration, aiming for joint development and production of military technologies, along with technology cooperation and sustainable logistics support. Areas of priority include unmanned and autonomous systems, electronic warfare, and artificial intelligence-supported capabilities.
Akturk clarified that the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement is not intended as an alternative to NATO but rather as a complementary mechanism to the international security framework, enhancing regional security and stability. The agreement allows for potential future participation by other countries, subject to consensus, to create a robust institutional mechanism capable of providing military support in times of crisis.
In a separate statement, Akturk congratulated Pakistan on its Independence Day, further solidifying the fraternal ties between the countries involved in the pact.
'Israel Continues Attacks, Deepening Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza'
Akturk also addressed Middle Eastern developments, asserting that peace and stability in the region hinge on Israel ceasing its occupation and attacks in Gaza and Lebanon. He criticized Israel's continued military actions, which have exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, as documented in UN reports. Akturk urged the international community to adopt a stronger stance against Israel's actions to uphold international law and humanitarian values.
F-16 Crash
Additionally, Akturk provided details on the recent F-16 aircraft crash in Yalova. The incident occurred during a training flight, but the pilot safely ejected and is in good health. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.