Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has extended an olive branch to Bangladesh’s newly appointed interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus. He was eager to collaborate and enhance bilateral cooperation between the two nations.
The departure of Sheikh Hasina, who ruled Bangladesh for 15 years, has brought a glimmer of hope to Islamabad for a potential thaw in relations between the two nations. Throughout Hasina’s tenure, Bangladesh-Pakistan ties remained strained, but the recent change in leadership in Dhaka has rekindled optimism for a reset. Many believe Hasina’s ouster has created a window of opportunity for both countries to re-establish and normalize their relations, paving the way for a new chapter in bilateral cooperation.
In a significant development following Sheikh Hasina’s departure, Bangladesh plans to purchase a substantial shipment of defense materials from Pakistan, including 40,000 rounds of ammunition, Tank ammunition in 2000 quantities, 40 tons of RDX explosive in wax consistency, and 2,900 high-intensity projectiles. This represents a significant increase from the previous year’s order, which included 12,000 rounds of ammunition.
This is not the first instance of Pakistan supplying ammunition to Bangladesh, and the current order is notably larger than previous ones. According to details, the shipment will occur in three phases, commencing in the first week of September 2024 and concluding by December 2024.
A letter from the General Manager of Exports of Pakistan Ordinance Factory (POF) has revealed details of supplementary defence exports to Bangladesh. The correspondence, addressed to the Managing Directors of various POF divisions, including Havelian, Sanjwal, and Gadwal, outlines the specifics of the additional defence stores to be exported. This move indicates Bangladesh’s efforts to enhance its defense capabilities and potentially signals strengthening ties with Pakistan under the new leadership.
A sinister plot is unfolding in Bangladesh, aimed at perpetuating anti-India sentiment and jeopardizing the harmonious relationship between the two nations. Bangladesh has witnessed a surge in open anti-India hostility. The recent flooding in Feni has exacerbated the situation, which locals attribute to India’s alleged release of dam water from Tripura without prior notice, leading to catastrophic consequences. This was followed by a protest that erupted outside the Indian Visa Application Centre in Satkhira on August 26, as hundreds of Bangladeshi visa applicants took to the streets. The demonstration was prompted by the failure of many to receive their visas despite waiting for hours in long, winding queues.
Some observers believe this development presents an opportunity for Pakistan to re-engage with Bangladesh. The change in government has significant implications for regional stability and geopolitical dynamics, potentially leading to shifts in alliances and influence in South Asia.
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