Rapprochement Between Pakistan and Post-Hasina Bangladesh

Historically, Pakistan and Bangladesh – known as East Pakistan until its 1971 war of independence – have had a strained relationship. However, a notable shift occurred following the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government in August 2024.

Relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, appear to be thawing. There is growing sentiment in both countries in favor of moving beyond their difficult pasts and taking advantage of opportunities to strengthen military and economic ties, led by a focus on cultural exchanges.

Political leadership disagreements in West and East Pakistan over the outcomes of the 1970 elections stoked Bengali nationalism. The situation prompted Pakistan to crack down on then-East Pakistan in 1971, resulting in a civil war that later escalated into a third war between India and Pakistan. Bangladesh eventually gained independence. In the decades thereafter, governments led by Hasina’s Awami League (AL), which had led the fight for independence from Pakistan, took a distinctly hostile approach to Islamabad.

The historical grievances stemming from Pakistan’s use of military force to suppress the Bangladeshi quest for independence further complicated diplomatic relations over the years. Pakistani diplomats stationed in Bangladesh faced significant challenges in fostering goodwill. They were often met with hostility and limited avenues for engagement. Instances such as the expulsion of two Pakistani diplomats in 2015 amid allegations of “terror financing” underscored this strained dynamic.

However, current developments indicate a marked change: Pakistani diplomats in Dhaka are reporting increased demand for their presence and are engaging with government officials and political leaders without substantial restrictions. As noted by Syed Ahmed Maroof, Pakistan’s high commissioner in Dhaka, there is a palpable shift toward normalization.

Additionally, conversations surrounding an official apology from Pakistan regarding its actions during the 1971 conflict reflect an earnest desire to move beyond historical grievances. Maroof emphasized this point by stating that “we aim for a fresh start,” indicating Pakistan’s commitment to establishing more amicable relations with Bangladesh moving forward.

What emerges from this evolving narrative is the realization among Pakistani policymakers that societal attitudes in Bangladesh toward Pakistan may not be as hostile as it appeared under Hasina’s rule. Her government’s rhetoric often reinforced divisions rooted in historical trauma, but since her downfall a different tone has emerged.

For instance, the recent visit of Pakistan’s ambassador to the Urdu department at Dhaka University marks a significant gesture in the context of Bangladesh’s historical narrative.

For many in Bangladesh, Urdu is often perceived as a remnant of past domination by the Pakistani state. This visit, which would have been inconceivable just a few months ago when Hasina was in power, indicates a potential thawing of relations between the two nations. Moreover, it also indicates that perhaps Urdu is no longer identified with the West Pakistani identity and can coexist with local languages among young Bengalis.

The Pakistani ambassador also facilitated concerts by renowned Pakistani singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan at Dhaka’s Army Stadium. This event was organized in consultation with Dhaka University students as a fundraiser for injured protesters and families affected by unrest that led to the downfall of Hasina’s government.

For Islamabad, such cultural engagements offer a fresh start and can prove pivotal in fostering goodwill and understanding between the two countries.

On the political front too there is deepening engagement between the two countries. Notably, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has met with Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Yunus on multiple occasions in recent months. Discussions between the two countries underscore a mutual recognition of the importance of enhancing people-to-people contacts and cultural exchanges through various avenues, including the arts, sports, academia, and student interactions.

Adding further substance to this newfound rapprochement is an unexpected surge in military-to-military engagement between Pakistan and Bangladesh. Reports indicate that despite official hostility from Hasina’s government, connections between their armed forces persisted. Since August 2024, Bangladesh has commenced importing ammunition from Pakistan – a development that could lead to deeper military collaboration.

Additionally, high-level military delegations from Bangladesh visited Pakistan recently, where the two sides discussed training opportunities and procurement of advanced military equipment such as aircraft – specifically highlighting interest in JF-17 Thunder fighter jets.

While official relations may have been strained historically between Pakistan and Bangladesh, these increasing interactions suggest there exists considerable social and cultural enthusiasm for rekindling ties. Both nations appear increasingly receptive to exploring collaborative opportunities that transcend their tumultuous pasts – an encouraging sign for future diplomatic endeavors.

This newfound understanding presents a unique opportunity for both nations to engage constructively, acknowledging their shared history while focusing on collaborative prospects ahead.