Pakistan is all set to join the fight against Huthi rebels in Yemen.
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has said any threat to Saudi Arabia’s territorial integrity would evoke a strong response from Pakistan.
Earlier on Thursday, Pakistan Foreign Office confirmed it is currently examining Saudi Arabia’s request to provide assistance to overcome the on-going crisis in Yemen.
Foreign Office Tasnim Aslam during her weekly press briefing in Islamabad said “The Saudi request to become part of its coalition against Yemeni rebels is currently being examined,”
Situation in the Middle East created after Saudi Arabia launches strikes against Huthi rebels in Yemen was discussed in a high level meeting presided by the prime minister in Islamabad on Thursday. Minister for Defense Khawaja Asif, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign and National Security Affairs Sartaj Aziz, Army Chief General Raheel Sharif and Air Chief Marshal Sohail Aman were also present at the meeting.
During the meeting it was decided that a delegation comprising of defence minister and advisor to PM on National Security would leave for Saudi Arabia on March 27 to assess the situation. Senior representatives from the armed forces would also accompany the delegation.
The PM Nawaz has a close relations with Saudi Arabia, and attached great importance to its security.
Egypt and Jordan have confirmed they will join Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia in the coalition.
However, joining the coalition might irk Pakistan’s minority Shia community and neighbour Iran. (PhotoNews / AFP)
