ISLAMABAD — Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has described the Mecca agreement as an extension of Pakistan’s existing partnership with Saudi Arabia.
Speaking at a cabinet meeting in Islamabad, Shehbaz said the agreement would strengthen the wider Muslim community.
He said Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Türkiye had signed a defense agreement in Mecca.
The prime minister also recalled Pakistan’s earlier defense agreement with Saudi Arabia.
He highlighted Pakistan’s decades-long relationship with Türkiye.
Shehbaz Praises Field Marshal Asim Munir
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for his role in the defense agreement.
He said the military leadership deserved special recognition for its contribution to strengthening Pakistan’s defense partnerships.
Shehbaz said cooperation with Saudi Arabia and Türkiye reflected Pakistan’s longstanding strategic relationships with both countries.
PM Pledges Development in Azad Kashmir
The prime minister also discussed the political situation in Azad Kashmir.
He said voters in the region had chosen the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N).
Shehbaz expressed hope that Azad Kashmir would again enter a period of development and prosperity.
He said the federal government would work to meet the expectations of the people of Azad Kashmir.
Shehbaz Warns Against Attempts to Create Unrest
The prime minister accused external elements of trying to create instability in Azad Kashmir.
He said groups seeking to create unrest were following plans designed by forces outside the region.
Shehbaz also criticized the demands of the banned Action Committee.
He said the committee’s rigid position had worsened the situation.
The prime minister warned that continued attempts to create disorder could damage peace and stability in the region.
PM Pays Tribute to Security Forces
Shehbaz Sharif also paid tribute to security personnel who died fighting terrorism.
He said Pakistan’s security forces had made great sacrifices in the fight against terrorism.
The prime minister mentioned the deaths of security personnel in Hangu, Swat and other areas.
He paid tribute to Major Hafiz Ehsan Elahi, Captain Hamza Akram and DSP Diyar Khan.
Shehbaz also honored all other security personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty.
Cabinet Prays for Martyrs
During the cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif led prayers for the departed souls of the martyrs.
He prayed for their elevated ranks and for strength for their families.
The prime minister said the sacrifices of Pakistan’s security personnel would remain a vital part of the country’s fight against terrorism.