Karachi: Bringing together leading voices from academia, diplomacy, media, and international affairs, Ziauddin University organized a seminar titled ‘The Mecca Accord and its Significance for Regional Security in West and South Asia.’
The seminar aimed to examine the historical significance of the Mecca Accord and its relevance to contemporary regional security dynamics.
Addressing the audience at the seminar, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali Shaikh, Vice Chancellor of Ziauddin University, described the Mecca Accord as a significant strategic development bringing together the complementary strengths of Pakistan, Turkiye and Saudi Arabia: ‘The Accord should not be interpreted merely as an institutionalized military alliance only. Turkiye has a strong conventional defence industry, Pakistan possesses highly capable armed forces, and Saudi Arabia has considerable financial resources. Together, these complementary strengths could significantly enhance regional security.’
Elaborating on the Accord’s historical and diplomatic significance, Dr. Masuma Hasan, Chairperson of the Pakistan Institute of International Affairs (PIIA), described it as a potential collective security and deterrence mechanism against external threats. ‘The Mecca Accord represents a collective security mechanism and a form of deterrence against external threats. Pakistan has also played an important role as a mediator and facilitator, particularly in promoting dialogue between Iran and the United States’, she stated.
Highlighting the need to examine the Accord within its broader historical and geopolitical context, Mazhar Abbas, senior journalist and analyst, emphasized, ‘The Accord must be analysed in light of recent wars and changing regional dynamics.
Even global powers cannot ensure their survival through defence pacts alone; sustainable security requires economic stability, political cooperation and credible defence capabilities.’
Examining the Accord’s geopolitical dimensions, Prof. Dr. Huma Baqai, international affairs expert observed, ‘The Mecca Accord is not merely a defence pact; it is a manifesto of self-reliance focused on defence cooperation and deterrence. It offers Pakistan strategic depth and diplomatic flexibility while strengthening its position as a middle power connecting West and South Asia.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Prof. Dr. Abbas Zafar, Dean, Faculty of Health Sciences, expressed his gratitude to the speakers and participants.
The seminar explored the Accord’s relevance to regional peace and security and concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session.
