Mecca: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan affirmed that the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement signed between Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan is based on the principle of collective deterrence and is not directed against any country. He emphasized that it aims to enhance security in the region and will remain open to the participation of "brotherly nations."

According to National Iraqi News Agency, this statement came in a post Erdogan published on his "X" account on Friday, after signing the agreement in Mecca alongside Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Erdogan remarked that the agreement would contribute to strengthening security and defense cooperation among the three nations, implement joint projects in the defense industries, and support counter-terrorism efforts.

Erdogan highlighted that the agreement is founded on the principle of collective deterrence while affirming the right to self-defense, as stipulated in Article 51 of the UN Charter. He clarified that the agreement is not targeted at any specific country but seeks to achieve security, prosperity, and stability in the region. It is open to participation from other brotherly nations interested in joining.

The Turkish President reiterated Turkey's commitment to resolving conflicts and crises through dialogue and diplomacy, adhering to international law. He noted that during his visit to Saudi Arabia, discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif focused on enhancing cooperation among the three countries.

Erdogan concluded his remarks by expressing hope that the visit, consultations, and the signed agreement would bring positive outcomes and blessings to the region. The Mecca Agreement for Joint Defense stipulates that any armed attack on one of the three countries will be considered an attack on all, aiming to bolster collective deterrence and develop defense cooperation.