Erdogan says Mecca collective defense pact open to new members

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said the Mecca Collective Defense Agreement, signed on Thursday by Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, is open to other like-minded countries committed to peace and stability.

According to Report, in a post on X, Erdogan said the agreement reaffirms the right to self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter and is not directed against any country.

"It is open to all brotherly states seeking peace, prosperity and stability in our region," he said.

Erdogan added that the agreement is based on the principle of collective deterrence and will help deepen cooperation in security and defense, promote joint defense industry projects and strengthen counterterrorism efforts.

He also said Türkiye would continue to advocate resolving conflicts and crises through dialogue and diplomacy in accordance with international law.

Under the agreement signed by Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, an armed attack against one of the three countries will be regarded as an attack against all parties to the pact.