KARACHI: President of the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI), Muhammad Ikram Rajput, has endorsed the Makkah Defence Pact involving Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye, lauding the Prime Minister of Pakistan and the country's leadership for the initiative. He emphasized that the agreement, beyond enhancing collective defense, could present significant economic opportunities for the participating nations.

According to Korangi Association of Trade and Industry, Rajput highlighted that the pact should not be interpreted as an adversarial arrangement but rather as a foundation for promoting joint defense, peace, security, and economic prosperity. He noted that the growing strategic trust among the three countries could lead to increased trade, investment, and industrial cooperation, thereby contributing to regional stability.

Rajput underscored that in the context of fifth-generation warfare, economic strength is as vital as military prowess. He urged that trade, investment, technology, and economic collaboration be given priority, suggesting that the combined market size and resources of Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye could form a formidable economic alliance on the global stage.

He further advocated for the removal of trade barriers, simplification of customs procedures, and enhanced business exchanges to bolster trade volumes among the three nations. Rajput expressed optimism for joint ventures and investment projects, stressing the need for a conducive environment for such initiatives to thrive.

The KATI president also pointed to the potential for a trilateral economic framework that leverages Saudi Arabia's investment resources, Türkiye's industrial capabilities, and Pakistan's human resources. He called for the private sector to play a central role in this framework, envisioning the Makkah Defence Pact as a historic step toward a robust economic partnership.

Rajput concluded by expressing hope that the agreement would expand to cover broader areas such as trade, technology, energy, and cultural exchanges, laying the groundwork for a stable and prosperous future for the three nations and the Muslim world.