Islamabad: The Federal Cabinet has ratified the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. The cabinet convened in Islamabad with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif presiding over the meeting. During the session, the members also paid tribute to the leadership of both nations for fostering this agreement.

According to Radio Pakistan, the cabinet also approved the donation of fifteen non-operational aircraft from the Department of Plant Protection to various institutions. These aircraft will be used for educational, commemorative, and exhibition purposes. The decision follows unsuccessful attempts to auction these aircraft, leading to the conclusion that donation would be more beneficial. Meanwhile, four operational aircraft will continue to be utilized by the Department of Plant Protection for anti-locust operations.

Additionally, the meeting granted in-principle approval for legislation to establish a special security force. This force is intended to protect major dams and hydropower projects managed by WAPDA, reflecting the government’s focus on infrastructure security.