Pakistan intensifies diplomatic and military outreach to Bangladesh after a 15-year gap in bilateral talks, signaling a regional shift in alliances.Islamabad/Dhaka, April 29, 2025: Amid rising tensions with India, Pakistan is accelerating efforts to deepen its diplomatic and defense relations with Bangladesh. The push comes following the successful conclusion of the sixth round of Foreign Secretary Level Bilateral Consultations, held on April 17 in Dhaka, marking a revival in ties after a 15-year pause.
Pakistan’s Defence Minister, Khawaja Muhammad Asif, speaking at a reception celebrating Bangladesh’s 54th National and Independence Day in Islamabad, emphasized Islamabad’s commitment to enhancing economic, political, and cultural cooperation with Dhaka. He expressed optimism about fostering stronger relations, particularly in military training and business collaborations.
While the scheduled visit of Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, to Bangladesh was postponed due to “unforeseen circumstances,” the diplomatic momentum remains intact. High-level meetings continue, including a significant interaction between Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Syed Ahmed Maroof, and Bangladesh’s Foreign Secretary, Md. Jashim Uddin, earlier this week.
In a joint statement, both sides hailed the diplomatic talks as “constructive,” stressing the need for consistent follow-ups to solidify cooperation in various sectors.
Adding weight to the diplomatic engagement, a Pakistani business delegation is currently visiting Dhaka to participate in the Bangladesh-Pakistan Business Forum, aimed at exploring trade and investment opportunities.
This strategic outreach follows changes in Bangladesh’s internal political dynamics, with the interim regime, reportedly influenced by Islamist factions and the BNP, seen aligning more closely with Pakistan. Reports of Pakistan’s ISI allegedly supporting recent student protests in Bangladesh have added a layer of geopolitical complexity to the evolving scenario.
The revival of Pakistan-Bangladesh ties is being watched closely in New Delhi, especially amid accusations from Pakistan against India regarding regional instability and the ongoing diplomatic cold shoulder between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
