Bangladesh and Pakistan Strengthen Ties Amid Shift in Regional Politics

Strategic Insights -

The removal of Sheikh Hasina and her Awami League government in August 2024 marked a significant shift in Bangladesh's political and diplomatic landscape. The development has led to a renewed willingness on both sides to turn the page on historical grievances and focus on common interests. Bangladesh and Pakistan have deep-rooted cultural, religious, and historical ties, along with a mutual commitment to economic growth and regional stability. Both nations recognize the value of enhanced cooperation in addressing common challenges such as poverty, healthcare, education, and technological advancement.

Key Takeaways:

  • The establishment of a Joint Business Council in January 2025 aims to increase bilateral trade to $2-3 billion annually by 2028, with priority sectors including textiles, pharmaceuticals, agri-tech, and information technology.
  • Foreign Secretary-level consultations resumed in Dhaka in April 2025 after more than 15 years, reaffirming a shared commitment to advancing cooperation in trade, agriculture, education, and connectivity.
  • Military and intelligence cooperation has gained traction, with senior Bangladeshi military officials visiting Pakistan for high-level meetings focused on regional security and joint training.
  • Bangladesh participated in Pakistan's AMAN-25 naval exercise in February, highlighting growing strategic alignment and shared concerns over maritime security.
  • Visa facilitation was agreed upon in July 2025, with both countries granting visa-free entry to holders of diplomatic and official passports.
  • The removal of 100% inspection requirements on imports has improved logistical efficiency and trade flows.
  • Direct maritime shipping between Karachi and Chittagong resumed in November 2024, streamlining supply chains and reducing transit times.
  • Bilateral trade rose by 27% between August and December 2024, followed by a 40% year-on-year increase in the first quarter of 2025.
  • Establishing a joint historical commission could provide a path toward reconciliation and pave the way for a stronger, more meaningful partnership.

Statistics:

  • Bilateral trade increased by 27% between August and December 2024.
  • Direct maritime shipping between Karachi and Chittagong resumed in November 2024, streamlining supply chains and reducing transit times.
  • Bilateral trade rose by 40% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025.
  • The Joint Business Council aims to increase bilateral trade to $2-3 billion annually by 2028.

Sources:

  • The text cites: "The removal of Sheikh Hasina and her Awami League government in August 2024, after a 15-year tenure..."
  • "In January 2025, both countries established a Joint Business Council to unlock this potential, aiming to increase bilateral trade to $2-3 billion annually by 2028."
  • "In a major diplomatic breakthrough, Foreign Secretary-level consultations resumed in Dhaka in April 2025 after more than 15 years."
  • "Visa facilitation followed in July 2025, when both countries agreed in principle to grant visa-free entry to holders of diplomatic and official passports an unprecedented move reflecting mutual trust."
  • "In November 2024, direct maritime shipping between Karachi and Chittagong resumed for the first time since 1971, streamlining supply chains and reducing transit times."