Economic benefits of Makkah pact essential for country: analyst

Business Recorder reported that analyst Ateequr Rehman called the Makkah Defence Pact between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye a notable accomplishment that could deepen strategic confidence among the three nations. He said the economic gains from the agreement were vital for Pakistan.

Trade figures cited for 2026 show a wide imbalance with Saudi Arabia, where Pakistani exports of about USD 687 million were far outweighed by imports of roughly USD 4.06 billion. That left a deficit of around USD 3.37 billion, which Rehman described as massive. Trade with Turkiye was much smaller, with exports of approximately USD 38.2 million against imports of about USD 38.3 million, producing a negative balance of USD 109,000.

According to Rehman, Pakistan has a broad product range able to compete in both markets, and logistics, shipping, maritime transport, aviation and sustainable supply chains form another key area of ties. He also noted that the government targets a figure of USD 25.1 billion for ICT exports by 2030, a goal from which Saudi Arabia and Turkiye might gain.