New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday responded to the recent defence agreement signed between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, emphasizing that India expects the strategic partnership to respect “mutual interests and sensitivities.”

Speaking at the weekly press briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, “India and Saudi Arabia have a wide-ranging strategic partnership which has deepened considerably over the last several years. We expect that this strategic partnership will keep in mind mutual interests and sensitivities.”

Earlier this week, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan inked a “Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement” during Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s state visit to Riyadh, invited by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

According to the joint statement by both countries, the agreement ensures that any act of aggression against one nation will be considered an attack on both, reflecting nearly eight decades of historical ties, shared strategic interests, and close defence cooperation based on brotherhood and Islamic solidarity.

Reports indicate that, under the agreement, Saudi Arabia could potentially gain access to Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal, making this pact significant in terms of regional security dynamics.

The development follows a summit of 40 Islamic nations in Doha, where discussions were reportedly held to strengthen collective security frameworks, similar to NATO, especially in the context of rising tensions after Israel’s attack on Qatar.

The MEA’s statement highlights India’s continued engagement with Saudi Arabia while urging consideration of regional sensitivities and mutual interests in defence partnerships.