Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has said that Pakistan’s recent defense agreement with Saudi Arabia could pave the way for a NATO for the Muslim World.
Speaking in the National Assembly on Friday, Dar explained that several Muslim countries, both Arab and non-Arab, have expressed interest in signing similar defense pacts with Pakistan. He noted that if many Islamic states join the initiative, it may lead to the formation of a new NATO-like military alliance.
Dar emphasized that the agreement with Saudi Arabia was not a sudden move but the result of extensive discussions. He described it as a historic step and said it reflects Pakistan’s special status as one of the guardians of the Two Holy Mosques.
Interest from Other Muslim Countries
The deputy prime minister revealed that interest in defense cooperation has come from multiple Islamic nations. He added that if these countries pursue formal deals with Pakistan, the region could witness the creation of a powerful collective defense structure.
“This could effectively become a NATO for the Muslim World,” Dar remarked.
Pakistan’s Defense and Economic Strength
Dar reminded the assembly that Pakistan is already a nuclear and missile power. However, he emphasized that the country must also prioritize building economic strength. He declared that one day Pakistan would lead the Islamic world in both defense and economic development.
Comments on Trump’s Gaza Plan
During the same session, Dar also addressed the Gaza crisis. He said the 20-point plan announced by former U.S. President Donald Trump was not aligned with the proposals put forward by Muslim-majority countries. According to Dar, changes were made to the draft presented earlier by the Islamic bloc.
Political and Diplomatic Engagements
Dar highlighted the importance of unity between Pakistan’s major political parties. He expressed gratitude to the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) for returning to the National Assembly and reaffirmed cooperation between the PPP and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N).
He also outlined Pakistan’s ongoing diplomatic efforts on major international issues, including the Palestinian issue, the Kashmir dispute, and negotiations with global powers.
Growing Momentum for Muslim Defense Cooperation
Analysts argue that Pakistan’s strategic location and military capabilities position it as a key player in shaping regional defense cooperation. If more countries sign similar deals, it could shift the balance of power in the Muslim world.
Dar’s remarks have sparked debate on whether such an alliance would be limited to military defense or could evolve into broader political and economic cooperation.
