Ian Bremmer: Saudi-Pak defence pact impacts India deeply
Geopolitical expert Ian Bremmer warned that Saudi Arabia’s mutual defence pact with Pakistan could reshape South Asia’s security landscape, bringing significant strategic and political consequences, especially for neighbouring India.
Saudi-Pak Defence Pact Will Change Life for India: Ian Bremmer
Saudi Arabia’s landmark decision to sign a mutual defence pact with Pakistan could reshape the security landscape of South Asia, particularly for India, warned geopolitical expert Ian Bremmer in an exclusive interview with India Today TV.
Bremmer, the President of political risk consultancy Eurasia Group, described the pact as a “game-changer” for the region. “This is going to change life for India, no question,” he said, pointing out that the timing is especially significant given recent cross-border tensions and India’s military operations, including Operation Sindoor.
**A new factor in India-Pakistan conflict equation**Explaining his concerns, Bremmer said the agreement introduces an added layer of complexity to India’s already fragile relationship with Pakistan. “If you’re India and you have an ongoing, very severe border security issue with Pakistan, there’s a good chance we could see another military altercation,” he said.
“What changes the equation is Saudi Arabia’s commitment to come to Pakistan’s defence. If I’m sitting in New Delhi, that’s something I have to factor into my calculations. That’s going to change life for India, no question,” Bremmer reiterated.
India and Pakistan have fought several wars since independence and remain locked in disputes over Kashmir. For New Delhi, the possibility of Riyadh formally backing Islamabad in a future confrontation could significantly alter its strategic calculus.
**A boost of confidence for Pakistan**According to Bremmer, the pact also strengthens Pakistan’s hand, giving it a psychological and diplomatic edge. “This cements their long-standing ties with Riyadh and adds a new layer of confidence for Islamabad,” he noted.
However, Bremmer was quick to stress that while Saudi Arabia is an important ally, Pakistan’s principal partner remains China. “That’s not changing anytime soon. Most of their military support and shared intelligence still comes from Beijing,” he said. The Saudi deal, he added, is an “additional layer of insurance” rather than a wholesale shift in Pakistan’s alliances.
**Why Saudi Arabia is diversifying**For Saudi Arabia, the defence pact represents a deeper shift in its long-term approach to security. Bremmer explained that Riyadh is increasingly seeking to diversify its alliances instead of relying exclusively on the United States for protection.
“This is an effort to broaden their security umbrella. The Saudis see the world moving toward multipolarity. They want to ensure they have partners not only in Washington but also across Asia. That’s why they made this decision,” Bremmer said.
The pact, therefore, is not just about Pakistan but also about Riyadh’s changing global strategy. By building stronger ties with Islamabad, Saudi Arabia positions itself as a more active player in South Asian geopolitics — and indirectly increases pressure on India.
**Implications for India**For India, the development underscores the importance of carefully managing both its security and diplomatic strategies. While its military strength is formidable, New Delhi may now need to account for the possibility of Saudi involvement in any future confrontation with Pakistan.
As Bremmer concluded, “India cannot ignore this. The pact adds a new dimension to the region’s already volatile security environment. For New Delhi, this is not just about Pakistan anymore — it’s about how Saudi Arabia chooses to project its influence.”