Bangladesh has expressed interest in joining a defence framework involving Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye. The potential move would depend on Bangladesh’s national interests and changing global economic conditions.
Foreign Affairs Adviser Humayun Kabir discussed the possibility while speaking to Bangladesh Sangbad Sanstha. He is a close aide to Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
Kabir said Bangladesh maintains a positive approach towards joining an economic or defence arrangement involving the three countries. However, Dhaka would consider its own interests before making any decision.
Bangladesh Considers Defence Cooperation
Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye signed a joint Defence Pact in Makkah earlier this month. Under the agreement, the three countries have committed to collective defence.
An armed attack against one participating country would be treated as an attack against all three nations.
Bangladesh’s reported interest could potentially expand the framework. However, no formal announcement about Bangladesh joining the agreement has been made.
Kabir’s comments suggest Dhaka is currently considering the possibility rather than confirming its participation.
The decision would consider changing trends in global trade and the international economy. Bangladesh would also assess how such cooperation could serve its national interests.
Bangladesh Strengthens Relations With Pakistan
Kabir also discussed Bangladesh’s growing diplomatic engagement with Pakistan. He said Dhaka is strengthening its working bilateral relationship with Islamabad.
The cooperation is focused on trade and stronger people-to-people connections. Kabir described these developments as part of normal diplomatic engagement.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s planned visit to Saudi Arabia could also strengthen bilateral relations.
According to Kabir, the visit is expected to be finalised after the summer. The Saudi Crown Prince has invited the Bangladeshi prime minister to Riyadh.
The possible visit comes as Bangladesh evaluates wider regional economic and security cooperation.
India Closely Watching Developments
Bangladesh’s interest in the Defence Pact has also drawn attention from India.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs said New Delhi is closely monitoring developments in West Asia.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal was asked about Bangladesh’s reported interest in the agreement. He said India continues to closely follow developments in the region.
However, he did not provide further details about India’s position on Bangladesh potentially joining the arrangement.
Kabir also addressed the possibility of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman visiting India. He indicated that such a visit was unlikely under the current circumstances.
He said there was no reason to rush a high-level visit beyond Bangladesh’s national interests.
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For now, Bangladesh has expressed a positive position towards the proposed framework. Any decision to join the Defence Pact would depend on further diplomatic discussions and national considerations.
