Pakistan-GCC strategic ties are ever growing

Javed Hafeez

December 03, 2025 06:27

Pakistan has been part of the Gulf security architecture for quite a while, especially as the region’s threat perception changes over time. Pakistan not only understands various connotations of the Gulf threat perception but also considers Gulf security as part of its own national interest. It has no other great agenda except mutual support and shared benefits.

Some important recent developments point to the growing Pak-GCC nations’ co-operation in multiple fields. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has paid an official visit to the Kingdom of Bahrain and the two sides pledged to deepen economic and defense ties. A more and more symbiotic relationship is developing between Pakistan and the Arab countries of the Gulf. While these countries enhance their defense and security co-operation with Pakistan, they are also enhancing investments in Pakistan. Bahrain is home to the international naval task force called the Combined Task Force (CFT) where the Pakistan Navy has been present since the inception of this group.

Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia recently organized joint anti-terrorism drills in Tabuk. Both countries are determined to fight this resurgent menace. The choice of Tabuk as the venue for these important military exercises was also important as this border city is close to Jordan, Palestine and Israel. The drills focused on fighting terror groups in urban terrain and countering improvised explosive devices (IEDs) through collaborative defense preparedness. It’s important to note here, that just some days ago, the Saudi Armed Forces Chief had expressed the Kingdom’s desire to elevate its defense and strategic partnership with Pakistan to new heights.

Pakistan’s navy ship Yarmook, working in direct support of the Saudi-led Combined Task Force (CFT 150) of Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) seized narcotics valued at nearly $1 billion in the Arabian Sea recently. “The success of this focused operation highlights the importance of multinational collaboration,” said the Saudi naval forces officer who commands CTF 150. This operation, named Al Masmak, highlighted the crucial role of Saudi and Pakistani naval forces, within the context of an international force to deter the various nefarious activities of non-state actors close to our shores. The combined role of the navies and the Special Services Group is essential to fight terrorism and narcotics smuggling inland and on the high seas.

It stands to reason, especially now, that Gulf investment in Pakistan’s defense industry would be mutually beneficial.

Javed Hafeez

King Hammad Bin Isa Al Khalifa conferred the highest Bahraini civil award upon the Prime Minister of Pakistan. Prime Minister Sharif asked Bahraini investors to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan through the Special Investment Facilitation Council especially in food security, information technology, construction, mining, tourism and health care. With vast tracts of virgin land, Pakistan can produce a variety of food items and raise livestock for export to Gulf nations. Low transportation costs and quick deliveries due to the short distance make such investments in Pakistan more feasible.

Gulf countries and Pakistan abhor terror in all its hues and from all its sources. And these countries have made significant efforts to drive home to the Kabul government the necessity of reining in militant organizations operating from its soil.

While Qatar hosted a round of talks, the Kingdom has made efforts for peace between Pakistan and Afghanistan as well. It should be recalled that the UAE had made a successful intervention a few years ago for organizing a ceasefire between India and Pakistan along the Line of Control-- the defacto border between the two countries-- in Kashmir.

In May, Pakistan’s image got a boost due to its robust defense performance during the four-day air war with India. Pakistan has made long strides in the field of defense production with Chinese and Turkish collaborations. These arms are now battle-tested and far cheaper than other traditional sources. It stands to reason, especially now, that Gulf investment in Pakistan’s defense industry would be mutually beneficial.

Pak-GCC cooperation is built on centuries old cultural ties and a resultant mutual trust. There is a vast scope to further expand this cooperation. Just last week in Manama, as the PM received Bahrain’s highest state award, the two sides vowed to increase the current bilateral trade of $550 million to one billion. Multi-dimensional cooperation in trade, food security, defense production and continued strategic dialogue are essential in this ever changing strategic environment.