London: The Republic of Balochistan has expressed deep concern over defence agreements between Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Pakistan, arguing that such arrangements could further complicate the security situation in the region.
In a statement issued on August 9, the Republic of Balochistan alleged that Pakistan has maintained an “external occupation” of Balochistan’s maritime and terrestrial territories for nearly eight decades. It said any defence agreement with Islamabad should take into account Balochistan’s stated position and its claim to sovereign status.
The statement also raised concerns over Pakistan’s nuclear programme, alleging that closer defence cooperation with Saudi Arabia could potentially pave the way for the future transfer or sale of nuclear weapons to other Muslim countries. According to Balochistan, such proliferation could trigger a regional nuclear arms race with potentially devastating consequences.
The Republic of Balochistan urged Saudi Arabia and Türkiye to consider its claimed independent status before implementing defence arrangements with Pakistan. It warned that such agreements could have implications for future relations between Riyadh, Ankara and Balochistan.
Balochistan further asserted that Pakistan has no legal, political or moral authority over its territory, coastline, maritime boundaries or natural resources. It said agreements concluded by Pakistani authorities with other countries would not be recognised by Balochistan.
The statement also questioned Pakistan’s ability to provide effective security assistance to other countries, citing what it described as continuing difficulties faced by Pakistani forces in maintaining their presence in Balochistan and protecting development projects.
With Balochistan preparing to observe the anniversary of its claimed independence on August 11, the statement called on Saudi Arabia and Türkiye to give greater diplomatic attention to Balochistan and its resource-rich economy.
The Republic of Balochistan concluded by stating that it would not consider itself bound by defence, economic, political or diplomatic agreements entered into by Pakistan.
