Bangladesh is in the process of finalizing a military agreement with Pakistan, similar to Pakistan’s deal with Saudi Arabia. Ties between Bangladesh and Pakistan have deteriorated since Muhammad Yunus took over as caretaker of Bangladesh’s interim government. This shift has seen Bangladesh distancing itself from India and aligning more closely with Islamabad, despite concerns about radical elements being supported by Pakistan’s ISI on Bangladeshi soil.
Indian authorities are closely monitoring the situation as Bangladesh and Pakistan move towards solidifying their military cooperation. If the agreement is sealed, it would formalize joint military exercises and intelligence sharing between the two nations. There have even been discussions about potential nuclear cooperation, although Saudi Arabia’s stance on this remains unclear.
The evolving relationship between Pakistan and Bangladesh has raised alarms in India, especially considering the potential security implications. Following Sheikh Hasina’s removal after a significant uprising last year, the two countries are now working on a Mutual Defence Agreement, with efforts underway to finalize the draft through a joint mechanism.
Both countries are aiming to conclude the agreement before Bangladesh’s February elections, with the Bangladesh Army showing strong interest in enhancing military ties with Pakistan. Talks between military officials from both sides have intensified over the past eight months, with a focus on mirroring the Saudi Arabia-Islamabad model of cooperation.
The Bangladesh Army is particularly enthusiastic about advancing this agreement, with existing military memorandums covering various areas like training, exchanges, and capacity-building measures. While initial plans involved signing the agreement post-elections, recent developments suggest a shift in strategy, possibly influenced by the political landscape in Bangladesh. The outcome of the elections, especially concerning the BNP’s inclinations towards India, could impact the deal’s progress.
Efforts to disrupt the election process in Bangladesh to delay the polls and facilitate the agreement have been hinted at, underscoring the significance both countries attach to finalizing the deal swiftly. Despite current polls favoring the BNP over the Jamaat, the situation remains fluid, with India potentially exerting influence if the BNP comes to power. Both Dhaka and Islamabad are keen on sealing the deal before the elections, emphasizing the urgency surrounding the agreement.
