Makkah Defence Alliance Secretary General to Start Duties in Riyadh Soon

Makkah Defence Alliance

ISLAMABAD: The Foreign Office (FO) announced on Friday that Lieutenant General (retd) Nauman Mahmood is set to assume his role as the first secretary general of the Makkah Defence Alliance in Riyadh shortly. This appointment, made on September 23, marks a significant step in the collaboration between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye.

During the FO’s weekly press briefing, spokesperson Sajjad Haider Khan highlighted Pakistan’s ongoing commitment to facilitating dialogue amid the Gulf crisis, particularly concerning tensions between Iran and the United States. Khan noted that Pakistan has successfully brought both parties together for discussions, despite decades of limited contact, and emphasized the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving conflicts.

The spokesperson further elaborated on the regional dynamics, stating that Israel’s actions have complicated the situation. He criticized Israel’s expansionist policies, asserting that they undermine peace efforts in the region and contribute to ongoing tensions.

Looking ahead, Pakistan, alongside Qatar and other nations, is expected to continue its mediation efforts to foster a peaceful resolution to the Gulf crisis. The international community will be closely monitoring these developments as they unfold, particularly in light of the strategic alliances being formed through the Makkah Defence Alliance.