Erdogan Says Joint Defense Pact Affirms Right to Self-Defense Under UN Charter

Ankara: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has described the newly signed joint defense agreement between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye as an important step toward enhancing regional security, defense cooperation, and joint strategic initiatives.

In a statement, President Erdogan said he visited Makkah at the invitation of Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, where he held talks with the Saudi Crown Prince and Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif.

During the visit, the three countries signed a joint defense agreement aimed at strengthening collective defense capabilities and expanding cooperation in the security and defense sectors. Erdogan said the agreement would also promote joint projects in the defense industry, broaden military collaboration, and support more effective measures against terrorism.

The Turkish president noted that the agreement reaffirms the right to self-defense under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter. He emphasized that the pact is not directed against any country and remains open to the participation of all friendly nations seeking peace, prosperity, and stability in the region.

Erdogan further stated that, under Türkiye’s vision of regional responsibility, the country will continue to uphold international law and pursue the peaceful resolution of disputes through dialogue and diplomacy.

He concluded by expressing hope that the visit, the consultations, and the newly signed defense agreement would bring peace, stability, and prosperity to the entire region.