Bangladesh is enhancing ties with Pakistan following Sheikh Hasina’s ousting, marking a shift after years of tensions. Recent developments include direct trade, military cooperation, and simplified visa processes. However, historical grievances from the 1971 war remain unresolved, complicating normalization efforts while impacting regional stability, particularly in relation to India’s interests.
The political landscape in Bangladesh has changed significantly following the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, resulting in Dhaka’s emerging relations with Pakistan. Recently, Bangladesh began importing rice from Pakistan and has reestablished direct flights and military communications, marking a significant thaw in their historically strained ties.
Historically, the animosity stems from Bangladesh’s struggle for independence from Pakistan in 1971, during which India supported Bangladesh’s separatist movement. This combat gave rise to a complex relationship between the nations, oscillating between conflict and cooperation. After a period of cordial relations from 2001 to 2006, ties soured under Hasina, who preferred alignment with India.
Humayun Kabir, a former Bangladeshi diplomat, remarked that after years of tension, the countries are now beginning to act like “two normal neighbours.” However, the evolving relationship is under scrutiny, especially by India, given its history of hostilities with Pakistan. The recent cooling of relations between Dhaka and Delhi coincides with Bangladesh’s closer ties to Islamabad since Hasina’s departure.
There are suggestions that the renewed cooperation between Bangladesh and Pakistan is strategic, with political analysts noting a potential alliance for pushing back against Indian influence. Ayesha Siddiqa, a senior fellow from King’s College, stated, “Pakistan and Bangladesh have a tactical relationship at the moment.”
In military matters, a Bangladeshi delegation visited Pakistan for discussions, and Bangladesh’s navy took part in Pakistan-led maritime exercises. Veena Sikri, a former Indian high commissioner to Bangladesh, characterized the unfolding dynamics as reminiscent of past tensions, recalling accusations of insurgent training from within Bangladesh with Pakistani support.
The porous India-Bangladesh border allows for the potential cross-border movement of insurgents, which was once constrained by Hasina’s administration. Sikri notes the revival of military ties presents a significant security challenge for India. Moreover, there’s a growing concern about Pakistan reestablishing connections with Bangladeshi Islamist parties that supported it during the independence struggle.
The assertion by Yunus administration that allegations of ISI visits to Dhaka are “baseless” further complicates the situation. While India remains cautious, diplomats from Bangladesh assert that normalization with Pakistan won’t happen until historical grievances from the 1971 war are addressed, particularly the demand for a formal apology from Pakistan.
Kabir contended that “Pakistan needs to own the crimes that had taken place during the independence war.” This sentiment is echoed by former Pakistani military personnel, signaling that lasting reconciliation remains hindered by past atrocities on both sides.
Despite historical tensions, economists suggest that fostering bilateral trade could be beneficial. Bangladesh currently exports less than $700 million to Pakistan, a figure that could improve with political and trade relationship enhancements. Constraints, like high tariffs and bureaucratic hurdles, need addressing to realize this economic potential, with upcoming discussions anticipated during Pakistani foreign minister Ishaq Dar’s visit to Dhaka.
The developing relationship between Bangladesh and Pakistan highlights both opportunities and challenges stemming from a shared, tumultuous history. As Dhaka seeks economic benefits from closer ties, the unresolved issues from the 1971 war continue to cloud their partnership. The regional implications, especially concerning India’s strategic interests, emphasize the importance of careful navigation of these diplomatic waters moving forward.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
