Turkey has decided not to join a developing defence agreement between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, according to officials briefed on the matter, signalling Ankara’s intention to pursue an independent security posture amid shifting regional alliances.

Sources say Turkish authorities were consulted during early discussions surrounding enhanced military cooperation between Riyadh and Islamabad, but ultimately concluded that formal participation would not align with Turkey’s strategic priorities or existing defence commitments.

The Saudi-Pakistan initiative is understood to focus on deepening military coordination, training cooperation and defence industry ties at a time when both countries are seeking to strengthen their security capabilities and regional influence.

Ankara’s decision does not reflect a deterioration in relations with either Saudi Arabia or Pakistan, both of which maintain active diplomatic, economic and defence links with Turkey.

Instead, Turkish officials have emphasised that the country prefers flexible bilateral engagement rather than joining structured defence blocs that could constrain its freedom of action.

Turkey has in recent years expanded its defence partnerships across the Middle East, South Asia and Africa while simultaneously investing heavily in its domestic defence industry to reduce reliance on external suppliers.

Observers note that Ankara is also mindful of balancing relations with Gulf states, Iran and Western allies, and avoiding arrangements that could complicate that equilibrium.

The Saudi-Pakistan defence discussions are continuing independently of Turkey’s stance, with Riyadh and Islamabad expected to pursue cooperation that reflects their shared security interests, even as Turkey maintains dialogue with both sides on regional stability and defence collaboration through other channels.