•Khawaja Asif first suggested extending nuclear energy to KSA; nuclear weapons are “not on radar” and later retracted
•FO adopts a cautious approach; citing “evolutionary theory” but providing no details
•DAR suggests other countries are also interested in defense transactions
Islamabad: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif’s new statement on Pakistan National Defense Agreement Speculations about Saudi Arabia’s nuclear dimensions of the agreement have strengthened speculation.
Mr. Asif appeared on Thursday night’s TV talk show suggestion Pakistan’s nuclear energy can be provided to Riyadh under the new framework.
“What we have and the capabilities we have will be provided to (Saudi Arabia) in accordance with this Agreement,” he said.
These remarks are interpreted as the first clear signal that Pakistan may expand its nuclear deterrence to the kingdom, especially when Mr. Asif attended the signing ceremony in Riyadh.
However, in subsequent interviews Reutersthe minister denied that nuclear weapons were part of the agreement, saying they were “not on the radar.”
Amid chaos, the Foreign Ministry on Friday adopted a “strategic silence” A cautious approach.
In a weekly media briefing, Foreign Ministry spokesman Shafqat Ali Khan avoided whether the agreement would change Pakistan’s long-announced policy, whether it centers on nuclear deterrence India rather than extending it to another country.
When asked if this position changed twice, Mr. Khan simply mentioned the evolving doctrine. “The doctrine has developed and continues to do so,” he said. “I am not here to comment on the particularity of the doctrine, but our position is well known.”
Pakistan has been announcing its nuclear program aims to stop India only.
In December, the Foreign Ministry said: “Pakistan has made it clear that our strategic plan and allied capabilities are intended only to stop and block clearly visible experts.
Mr Khan had amended the agreement when he fired questions about participation rules related to the deployment of Saudi Arabian forces to consolidate the consolidation of the lung tie in Riyadh.
“Defense cooperation has been one of the main pillars of Pakistan-Sudia Arab all-round bilateral relations since the 1960s,” Khan said. “Strategic common defensive formalism is this historic and powerful defense partnership.”
Asked if the agreement was intended to examine Israel’s aggressive design in the region, he said: “This is defensive in nature, not against any third country. It will contribute to regional peace, security and stability.”
A Saudi official first sparked speculation about extended deterrence, which, shortly after the agreement was signed, hinted that Riyadh would receive nuclear insurance under the agreement. Saudi commentators later magnified the claim.
The joint statement announcing the agreement was formally “strategic mutual defense”, calling it an initiative to “develop all aspects of defense cooperation between the two countries and a common deterrent to any aggression”.
Other states “interested”: DAR
In addition, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said in a report in London that some other states have also shown interest in establishing a strategic defense agreement with Pakistan.
“Say what you say, but some other countries want to reach an agreement of this nature,” Dahl told reporters in London. “And questions about whether other states will join the treaty or similar deals in the ink.” “It’s not an autograph overnight; it’s been a few months.”
FM DAR called the agreement a “historical convention”, and he said Pakistan has maintained informal defense arrangements with Saudi Arabia, the same as the agreement signed on Wednesday.
“I believe both sides are happy. Let’s be frank: Saudi Arabia stands with us during tough times (such as sanctions). Their support is very relevant and important.” “Similarly, in the current crisis since 2022-2023, Saudi Arabia stands with us when we need the support of the International Monetary Fund (International Monetary Fund).
Published on September 20, 2025
