Saudi Arabia's Support and Partnership with Pakistan: A Special Relationship

Friendship is fundamentally based on equality, not mere familiarity. When countries work together, it often signifies a partnership rooted in shared values rather than a master-servant relationship. Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, despite their geographical and historical differences, have established a particularly strong and mutually beneficial relationship over the years. This relationship is underpinned by their shared cultural, religious, and strategic interests.

Shared Fundamentals and Origins

Both Saudi Arabia and Pakistan are relatively new nations, having gained independence at similar times. Established in the aftermath of World War II, they share a common narrative of national identity and Islamic heritage. Both countries are predominantly Sunni Muslim, although they also harbor significant Shia communities. This religious affinity has often been a cornerstone of their bilateral relations. Furthermore, both nations have played crucial roles in global politics, aligning themselves with the United States in regional strategies, such as the Afghanistan wars against communism and the fight against extremist groups like the Taliban and Al-Qaeda.

Strategic Alliances and Defense

The defense and military cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia is a hallmark of their partnership. Pakistan's establishment as an Islamic state necessitated a strong relationship with Saudi Arabia, its primary Muslim ally. The kingdom has been supportive of Pakistan, providing critical financial assistance and military aid. This support has extended to Pakistan's nuclear program, where Saudi Arabia reportedly invested in Pakistan's nuclear weapons projects. Although Pakistan and Saudi Arabia both denied these reports, the donations and military cooperation underscore their deep strategic ties.

Diplomatic and Economic Relations

The bilateral relations between the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are historically close and extremely friendly, often described as a special relationship. The Pakistani government has been particularly close to senior members of the Saudi royal family, exemplified by the strong ties between Pakistan's current Prime Minister, Nawaz Sharif, and the Saudi royal family. In 2014, Saudi Arabia gifted Pakistan 200 tonnes of dates as a gesture of goodwill, further reinforcing their friendly ties.

Political and Military Cooperation

Both countries share a common enemy in regional powers that pose threats to their sovereignty. Pakistan's global standing as the sole declared nuclear power and one of the largest armies in the Muslim world has allowed it to play a pivotal role in supporting Saudi Arabia's defense needs. The kingdom has extended significant financial assistance to Pakistan, including a 1.5 billion dollar grant. This investment has been reciprocated with the sale of JF-17 Thunder jets to Saudi Arabia, highlighting the military cooperation that binds the two nations.

Strategic Importance in the Region

The strategic importance of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia in the region cannot be overstated. Both countries complement each other's roles without direct competition. Their non-adjacency ensures that their interests are mutually beneficial rather than conflicting. This partnership has been particularly evident in their efforts to maintain regional stability and address shared security challenges. Saudi Arabia's economic resources and the promise of investment have often come with military and security cooperation from Pakistan, reflecting a symbiotic relationship.

As both nations continue to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape, their special relationship is likely to remain a cornerstone of their foreign policies. The foundation of this partnership is built on mutual respect, shared values, and a commitment to regional stability and security.

Keywords: Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Special Relationship, Bilateral Relations, Military Cooperation