India has acknowledged its awareness of the recently signed defence agreement between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, formalizing a long-standing security partnership. The pact was signed on September 17, 2025, in Riyadh by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during Shehbaz Sharif’s official visit.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India will carefully study the implications of the deal for national security as well as regional and global stability. The agreement aims to enhance defence cooperation and strengthen joint action against any aggression, reflecting both nations’ commitment to security and peace.
The Indian opposition Congress party has expressed concern over the pact, warning of serious consequences for India’s national security and criticizing the government’s diplomatic approach. Congress cited recent setbacks in India’s foreign relations, including contentious interactions involving Pakistan and China, and fears of reduced reliability of the United States as a security partner.
Saudi Arabia’s move to formalize this pact with nuclear-armed Pakistan, amidst heightened regional tensions linked to Israel’s actions in the Gulf, adds complexity to India’s security outlook. India remains vigilant over how Pakistan might leverage this agreement in case of any military escalation between the two nations, emphasizing that any terror attack will be treated as an act of war.
Historically, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan have maintained close defence ties since the 1960s, including training Saudi troops and financial support. The new pact reportedly covers all military aspects, including Pakistan’s nuclear umbrella for Saudi Arabia. Nevertheless, Saudi officials reiterated that the kingdom’s relationship with India remains strong and is expected to grow, contributing to regional peace.
India’s robust commercial and defence relations with Saudi Arabia, including naval cooperation and recent joint military exercises, are deemed unlikely to be negatively impacted by this agreement. Experts suggest Riyadh’s decision stems from its own security concerns but could indirectly provide economic benefits to Pakistan. India will monitor any potential domestic impact of increased cooperation among Muslim nations in the region.
