PAKISTAN signed a bilateral agreement with Saudi Arabia in September last year, and this was followed this year by the trilateral pact involving Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye. Pakistan has celebrated these developments as significant diplomatic and defence achievements.

However, Pakistan’s own security situation remains deeply concerning, and the US Department of State has advised American citizens to reconsider travel to Pakistan. The government appears keen on strengthening ties with other countries, but is it paying sufficient attention to the security of its own citizens?

International defence agreements may enhance Pakistan’s strategic standing, but they cannot compensate for weaknesses in domestic law-enforcement and public safety.

The people of Pakistan just want to live without fear. They expect the government not only to protect the country from all external threats, but also to safeguard their lives and property within its borders.

Defence agreements with friendly countries may serve important strategic purposes, but their value must ultimately be measured alongside the security and wellbeing of ordinary citizens.

If the state cannot ensure the safety of its people at home, what tangible benefits would all these defence agreements ultimately bring to the common man?

Dr Asghar Naqvi
Karachi

Published in Dawn, November 10th, 2026