The long-running tense relations between Bangladesh and Pakistan have seen a change in recent times. The historic meeting between Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir and Bangladeshi army officer Lieutenant General SM Kamrul Hasan in Islamabad has given a new direction to the relations between the two countries. Pakistan described the meeting as a symbol of “brotherhood” and a step towards strengthening military relations between the two countries.
Changing equations after Sheikh Hasina is out of power
Relations between the two countries remained extremely tense during the 16-year-long tenure of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Under Hasina’s leadership, Bangladesh took a tough stance against Pakistan and strengthened its relations with India. But after Sheikh Hasina was ousted from power, Pakistan has started initiatives to improve its relations with Bangladesh.
Historical wounds of 1971 and current equation
The massacres and other atrocities that took place during Bangladesh’s struggle for independence and partition from Pakistan in 1971 had created a deep gap in relations between the two countries.
- Pakistan’s military and its allies took action against Bengali rebels, resulting in hundreds of thousands of deaths and millions of women becoming victims of sexual violence.
- With India’s help, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and his Awami League achieved independence of Bangladesh.
Although Pakistan formally accepted the independence of Bangladesh in 1974, disputes remained over issues such as non-apology over the events of 1971 and distribution of assets.
New partnerships and strategic meetings
High-level talks and diplomatic contacts between Pakistan and Bangladesh have increased in recent times.
- Pakistan Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and Bangladesh’s interim Prime Minister Muhammad Yunus met at international forums.
- Pakistan Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will visit Bangladesh next month, which will be the first high-level visit between the two countries since 2012.
Regional politics and changing equations
Experts believe that the increasing negative sentiment against India and the changing scenario of regional politics have brought Pakistan and Bangladesh closer to each other. Both the countries are now trying to increase cooperation at military and political level.
New chapter or temporary equation?
The recent rapprochement between Bangladesh and Pakistan can be considered a positive step for regional stability. However, it will be interesting to see how permanent these changes are and whether the two countries can truly leave behind the wounds of 1971 and forge a renewed relationship.
