rki.news | Source: Anadolu
ANKARA: Aug. 7: Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz has described the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement signed by Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan as a historic milestone to strengthen regional security and expand strategic cooperation.
In a statement posted on the Turkish social media platform NSosyal, Yilmaz said President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif signed the agreement in Mecca on Friday.
He said the agreement would enhance cooperation in collective security, deterrence, the defense industry and regional stability while supporting Türkiye’s peace-oriented foreign policy and strategic partnerships.
Yilmaz emphasized the agreement is not directed against any country, stressing its purpose is to promote stability and cooperation across the region.
He also expressed confidence the security partnership would pave the way for stronger economic cooperation in connectivity, trade, finance and investment.
Highlighting growing global uncertainties, Yilmaz said regional partnerships are becoming increasingly important as international institutions and rules face mounting challenges. He added such cooperation could help build a fairer global order.
Yilmaz expressed hope the agreement, founded on shared history, brotherhood and solidarity, would bring lasting benefits to the region, the Islamic world and global peace.