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Foreign ministers

Relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh on the Mend

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Recent developments between Pakistan and Bangladesh have shown signs of improvement after a years-long period of strain. In a significant move, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar's visit to Dhaka marked the first time a Pakistani foreign minister had visited in 13 years. The trip resulted in the signing of six instruments aimed at strengthening ties between the two nations in various sectors. While the two countries still have differences regarding the 1971 events, it appears they are willing to move forward and work towards better relations. The Pakistani state's argument that differences over the separation of East Pakistan and the creation of Bangladesh have been addressed by Pakistan's 1974 recognition of Bangladesh and Gen Pervez Musharraf's expression of 'regret' during his 2002 visit for the excesses of 1971 may provide a foundation for improved ties. However, India's intransigence on reviving Saarc makes it an impractical goal at the moment.

Key Takeaways:

  • Pakistan and Bangladesh have signed six instruments to bolster ties in various sectors during Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar's visit to Dhaka, the first by a Pakistani foreign minister in 13 years.
  • Both countries are willing to move forward and work towards better relations despite differences on the 1971 events.
  • Pakistan's 1974 recognition of Bangladesh and Gen Pervez Musharraf's expression of 'regret' during his 2002 visit for the excesses of 1971 may address differences over the separation of East Pakistan and the creation of Bangladesh.
  • India's intransigence makes reviving Saarc impractical at the moment.
  • A trilateral cooperation mechanism involving China, Pakistan, and Bangladesh can be further explored to deepen ties between the three states and other regional countries.
  • Pakistan and Bangladesh can become partners in regional progress through trade and people-to-people ties, despite their painful history.

Statistics:

  • 13 years: The time since the last Pakistani foreign minister visited Dhaka.
  • 6: The number of instruments signed to bolster ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh.
  • 1974: The year Pakistan recognized Bangladesh.
  • 2002: The year Gen Pervez Musharraf expressed 'regret' for the excesses of 1971 during his visit.

Sources:

  • ("RELATIONS between Pakistan and Bangladesh, which had hit a low point during Sheikh Hasina Wajed's rule, are on the mend under the interim administration in Dhaka.")
  • ("Six 'instruments' signed to bolster ties in various sectors")
  • ("Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and Bangladesh's adviser on foreign affairs both expressed a wish to deepen relations")
  • ("Sheikh Hasina's regime used the 1971 war to justify its hostile attitude towards Pakistan and warm ties with India")

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