Bangladesh’s defense ties with Turkey are under scrutiny due to Ankara’s strong support for extremist Islamist groups, posing risks for Bangladesh’s stability and development. Despite Bangladesh’s need for defense cooperation, heavy reliance on a country known for backing extremist elements may leave Bangladesh more vulnerable, a report highlighted. Concerns have been raised by former counter-terrorism officials about Turkey’s support for extremist networks in Bangladesh, potentially complicating the security situation.
Highlighting Turkish government-backed activities, the report pointed out Ankara’s efforts to destabilize Bangladesh by promoting extremist elements and encouraging persecution of minorities by Islamists. These actions, part of a broader strategy to maintain regional instability, align with Turkish President Erdogan’s aspirations to play a prominent role in the Muslim world. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan’s recent visit to Bangladesh, where he emphasized the country’s importance for regional stability, was viewed skeptically given Turkey’s alleged involvement with extremist groups.
The report also raised doubts about Turkey’s pledges to support Rohingya repatriation, citing Turkish intelligence’s suspected ties to militant recruitment in Rohingya camps. Despite a cultural cooperation agreement between Bangladesh and Turkey, concerns were raised over the vandalization of statues linked to Bangladesh’s Liberation War heritage by groups allegedly supported by Ankara. The report warned that Bangladesh should be cautious in its engagement with Turkey, likening it to a suffocating embrace rather than genuine support.
