Following the change of government in Dhaka in August 2024, Pakistan and Bangladesh have moved closer, marking a significant shift in their bilateral relations. This development comes as Bangladesh, which gained independence from Pakistan in 1971, seeks to strengthen its ties with its former neighbor, signaling a new era of cooperation. The recent high-level meeting between Pakistani Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee Chairman General Sahir Shamshad Mirza and Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus underscores the growing interest in enhancing trade, investment, and defense cooperation between the two nations. These discussions are expected to pave the way for deeper bilateral engagement, which has been strained due to historical tensions.
The strategic collaboration between Pakistan and Bangladesh, now marked by a renewed focus on mutual gains, includes proposals such as a two-way shipping route between Karachi and Chittagong, as well as an anticipated Dhaka-Karachi air route soon. These initiatives highlight the increasing importance of infrastructure and connectivity in fostering stronger economic and security ties. However, the recent developments have also drawn attention to the broader implications of this political shift, particularly in how Bangladesh is addressing its historical grievances with Pakistan and the legacy of the 1971 war.
The new leadership in Dhaka, led by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, has taken a more proactive approach in rebuilding relations with Pakistan, which has previously been a source of contention. This includes revisiting the legacy of the 1971 Liberation War, a topic that has resurfaced in the wake of the political transition. Recent events, such as the destruction of war memorials and historical sites, have reignited discussions about the country’s approach to its past, emphasizing the complex interplay between historical narrative and contemporary politics.