JEDDAH: Pakistan’s government has welcomed the formation of the Saudi-led 34-nation alliance against terrorism, but would wait for further details of the functioning of the entity before determining the extent of its involvement.

In a statement issued by the Pakistan Embassy in Riyadh on Wednesday, the government stated that it supports all “regional and international efforts to combat militancy, extremism and terrorism.”

“It is in this context that Pakistan welcomes the formation of the 34-nation alliance to counter terrorism and is awaiting further details to decide the extent of its participation in different activities of the alliance.”

It said that as a member of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) it had agreed to the commitments made at the 42nd session of the OIC’s Council of Foreign Ministers to adhere to relevant UN and OIC resolutions on combating terrorism and extremism.

“Pakistan and Saudi Arabia enjoy close, cordial and brotherly relations. Both countries condemn terrorism and cooperate in the efforts to eliminate this menace,” it stated.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Judicial Council has also welcomed the move by the government, according to Sheikh Salman bin Mohammed Al-Nashwan, secretary-general and spokesman of the council.

Al-Nashwan was quoted as saying that the Kingdom’s government has taken a blessed step in the fight against terrorism and extremist thought.

He said it was vital for the alliance to use military and other measures to cut off funding and resources to these groups.

He said the Islamic alliance wants to inform the whole world that terrorism has no religion or sect and that many were suffering from it around the globe. Practical measures were needed to fight these groups on the ground.

He said Muslim countries have joined the alliance because they are aware of the destructive nature of terrorism. He praised the Kingdom for taking measures to ensure that the world becomes a safer place, and ensure justice prevails.