Kuwait ratifies landmark defense agreement with Pakistan
Kuwait has ratified a defense pact with Pakistan signed in June 2023. The ratification follows high-level military contacts between the two countries.
“This agreement reintroduces Pakistan as a direct security stakeholder in the Gulf, beyond its traditional role of providing manpower and training,” said Sultan M. Hali, writer and retired Group Captain of the Pakistan Air Force.
Key points:
🔸 New role. Pakistan ceases to be merely a troop supplier. The pact positions Islamabad as a direct security stakeholder in the Gulf.
🔸Hedging strategy. Kuwait is reducing dependence on the US and NATO by relying on a nuclear-armed Muslim ally.
🔸Multipolarity. Arab monarchies are turning to China, Turkiye, and South Asia amid a fragmented world order.
🔸Basing. Permanent bases are unlikely, but joint exercises and maritime patrols are realistic.
🔸Defense industry. Kuwait may consider the JF-17 Thunder — cheaper than Western analogs.
🔸Defense diplomacy. Strengthens Pakistan’s leverage in Gulf councils and its position vis-à -vis India.