As Bangladesh navigates a period of political transition, relations with Pakistan have taken a surprising turn towards cooperation, prompting scrutiny from India. Following the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina last year, Bangladesh has started direct trade with Pakistan, marking a significant shift after decades of strained ties. The two nations recently engaged in the inaugural transaction of importing 50,000 tonnes of rice from Pakistan, a gesture signifying thawing relations. Alongside trade, both countries have also revived direct flights, military contacts, and simplified visa processes.
India Observes Cautiously as Bangladesh and Pakistan Strengthen Ties
India Observes Cautiously as Bangladesh and Pakistan Strengthen Ties
Recent developments indicate a warming relationship between Bangladesh and Pakistan, raising concerns in New Delhi.
Historically, the animosity between Bangladesh and Pakistan dates back to the 1971 war when Bangladesh fought for independence from what was then East Pakistan, with India playing a supportive role. Bangladesh's relationship with Pakistan occasionally warmed in the early 2000s but has remained mostly cool since Hasina's rise to power in 2009, primarily due to Indian backing. However, following her departure amidst nationwide protests, the diplomatic landscape appears to be shifting.
Humayun Kabir, a former Bangladeshi diplomat, reflected on this change, suggesting that the two nations are returning to a more typical neighborly relationship. The shifting dynamics are being closely monitored by India, which has historically experienced tensions with Pakistan.
The diplomatic approach between Dhaka and Delhi has turned frosty since Hasina's exit. India has been silent on Bangladesh's requests for her extradition regarding various corruption charges she faces, adding a layer of complexity to the relationship. Some analysts interpret the growing closeness between Bangladesh and Pakistan as a strategic maneuver against India, asserting that the two countries may collaborate to counter Indian influence in the region.
In addition to reviving trade relations, Bangladesh's new interim government, under Muhammad Yunus, has engaged with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at various multilateral events. Reports of increased military cooperation also surfaced, with a Bangladeshi military delegation visiting Pakistan and participating in joint exercises.
Veena Sikri, a former Indian high commissioner to Bangladesh, described the renewed ties as reminiscent of past tensions, emphasizing India's concern over potential security implications arising from Bangladesh’s military collaboration with Pakistan, particularly with regards to historical insurgent issues.
While Bangladesh's interim government rejected claims that senior ISI officials visited Dhaka or that Pakistani operatives were attempting to revive insurgent camps, the allegations highlight the sensitivity of military engagement between the two nations.
Despite historical grievances stemming from the 1971 war, including Bangladesh's call for a Pakistani apology for wartime atrocities, economists argue that trade could be a route to improve bilateral relations. Currently, trade levels are below $700 million, and there are calls to reduce tariffs and facilitate business interactions.
Discussions on enhancing diplomatic and economic ties are expected when Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar visits Dhaka next month. Bangladesh is approaching general elections later this year, and with a potential change in government, new foreign policy directions might emerge, keeping the region vigilant about the implications for peace and stability, especially from India's perspective.
Humayun Kabir, a former Bangladeshi diplomat, reflected on this change, suggesting that the two nations are returning to a more typical neighborly relationship. The shifting dynamics are being closely monitored by India, which has historically experienced tensions with Pakistan.
The diplomatic approach between Dhaka and Delhi has turned frosty since Hasina's exit. India has been silent on Bangladesh's requests for her extradition regarding various corruption charges she faces, adding a layer of complexity to the relationship. Some analysts interpret the growing closeness between Bangladesh and Pakistan as a strategic maneuver against India, asserting that the two countries may collaborate to counter Indian influence in the region.
In addition to reviving trade relations, Bangladesh's new interim government, under Muhammad Yunus, has engaged with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at various multilateral events. Reports of increased military cooperation also surfaced, with a Bangladeshi military delegation visiting Pakistan and participating in joint exercises.
Veena Sikri, a former Indian high commissioner to Bangladesh, described the renewed ties as reminiscent of past tensions, emphasizing India's concern over potential security implications arising from Bangladesh’s military collaboration with Pakistan, particularly with regards to historical insurgent issues.
While Bangladesh's interim government rejected claims that senior ISI officials visited Dhaka or that Pakistani operatives were attempting to revive insurgent camps, the allegations highlight the sensitivity of military engagement between the two nations.
Despite historical grievances stemming from the 1971 war, including Bangladesh's call for a Pakistani apology for wartime atrocities, economists argue that trade could be a route to improve bilateral relations. Currently, trade levels are below $700 million, and there are calls to reduce tariffs and facilitate business interactions.
Discussions on enhancing diplomatic and economic ties are expected when Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar visits Dhaka next month. Bangladesh is approaching general elections later this year, and with a potential change in government, new foreign policy directions might emerge, keeping the region vigilant about the implications for peace and stability, especially from India's perspective.
