Web Desk: Security sources have rejected a Reuters report claiming that Pakistan suspended a $1.5 billion weapons deal with Sudan under pressure from Saudi Arabia, calling the story “baseless and misleading.”
Officials familiar with the matter said the report is inaccurate and does not reflect the situation on the ground. They added that no such decision has been taken regarding any defence agreement involving Sudan.
Moreover, the sources said the details published in the report are unverified claims with no connection to Pakistan’s ongoing defence cooperation with other countries. They stressed that such arrangements are handled through formal institutional processes.
In addition, officials dismissed the suggestion that Saudi Arabia influenced any suspension of arms-related activity. They said Pakistan and Saudi Arabia maintain strong and stable relations, with close coordination in defence and other strategic areas.
The Reuters report had claimed that Islamabad halted a major arms package, including aircraft and weapons systems, after Riyadh allegedly withdrew financial support and urged termination of the deal. However, security sources firmly denied any such development.
Furthermore, the sources said Pakistan’s defence partnerships are based on established procedures and are not shaped by external, unverified reports. They reiterated that policy decisions are communicated through official channels, not anonymous narratives.
The report also linked the alleged deal to the conflict in Sudan between the national army and paramilitary forces. However, officials said Pakistan supports peaceful resolution of conflicts and continues to follow international norms in its defence relations.
Diplomatic observers noted that unverified reporting on sensitive defence matters can create unnecessary confusion. They urged reliance on confirmed official statements when assessing such issues.
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