ISLAMABAD: International media have claimed that Pakistan has paused a proposed $1.5 billion defence deal with Sudan involving weapons and fighter jets. The reports said Pakistan put the deal on hold due to the pressure from Saudi Arabia.
The Claim
International reporting alleged that Pakistan placed the defence deal on hold after Saudi Arabia withdrew financial support. It was further claimed that the agreement was brokered with Saudi involvement and formed part of broader defence sales under negotiation by Pakistan. Some reports also linked the development to shifting Saudi strategic priorities in Africa.
Fact Check
Pakistani security sources have categorically rejected the claims. Officials said the reports were incorrect and misleading, and that no such deal had been suspended or cancelled. Contrary to reports of financial support withdrawal, Saudi Arabia not only extended rollover of the five billion dollars but also deposit $ 3 billion additional deposit to the State Bank of Pakistan. The State Bank received $ one billion, the second and final tranche of the $ 3 billion deposit.
According to security sources, Pakistan has not announced any termination of defence cooperation with Sudan in the manner reported. Officials also clarified that discussions and defence engagements, where applicable, are handled through formal and confidential channels, and speculative reporting does not reflect official policy.
No official confirmation has been issued by Pakistan’s military or government regarding any finalised $1.5 billion agreement being halted due to external pressure.
The Verdict
The claim that Pakistan has put a $1.5 billion arms deal with Sudan on hold following Saudi intervention has been denied by Pakistani security sources. No official confirmation supports the suspension or cancellation of such an agreement.
