Bangladesh, Pakistan Strengthen Ties Amid India Concerns

Bangladesh and Pakistan are experiencing a notable thaw in relations, highlighted by recent developments including direct trade, military contact revival, and simplified visa procedures. This shift comes after the dramatic ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who maintained a distance from Pakistan during her 15-year tenure. The two countries, historically adversarial since Bangladesh's independence in 1971, have begun trading, with Bangladesh importing 50,000 tonnes of rice from Pakistan. Observers note that this warming relationship is significant, particularly amid India's cautious stance, as it has historically opposed Pakistan. The evolving dynamics could reshape regional alignments, especially given India's frosty relations with both Bangladesh and Pakistan. Experts suggest that the relationship is returning to a more normalized state, as indicated by former Bangladeshi diplomat Humayun Kabir.