DHAKA: Bangladesh is adopting a cautious approach as it explores closer cooperation with Pakistan, with discussions underway on expanding bilateral ties that may include defence-related engagement, officials and analysts said.
Recent interactions between Dhaka and Islamabad have focused on rebuilding diplomatic engagement and assessing areas of mutual interest, following a period of limited high-level contact. While both sides have signaled interest in improving relations, Bangladeshi officials have emphasized that any progress will be guided by national interest and regional considerations.
Defence cooperation has emerged as one of the areas under discussion, though no formal agreement or commitment has been announced. Officials in Dhaka have indicated that talks, if any, remain at an exploratory stage and should not be interpreted as a shift in Bangladesh’s longstanding foreign policy posture.
Analysts say Bangladesh’s measured response reflects its preference for maintaining balanced relations across South Asia, while avoiding steps that could be perceived as disruptive to regional stability.
Islamabad, for its part, has expressed readiness to enhance engagement with Bangladesh across multiple sectors, including trade, education, and security cooperation. However, both sides appear aligned on proceeding gradually.
No timeline has been disclosed for further talks, and officials from both countries have refrained from commenting publicly on specific defence-related proposals.
