Pakistan Army Considers Return to Bangladesh After 50 Years

The Pakistan Army is reportedly planning to re-engage with Bangladesh after more than five decades. High-ranking officials, including General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Chairman of Pakistan's Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, are expected to visit soon. In 1971, the Pakistani Army was ousted from East Pakistan, now Bangladesh. General Mirza has proposed visiting military training facilities in Bangladesh and addressing young officers.

Bangladesh has approved this proposal, and initial discussions are underway, although exact dates remain unconfirmed. This marks a notable shift in relations between the two nations following the removal of Sheikh Hasina and the leadership transition to Muhammad Yunus.

Strengthening Military Ties

Under Yunus’s interim government, Bangladesh is forging closer ties with Pakistan. In 2022, Sheikh Hasina had denied docking rights to the Pakistani warship PNS Taimur at Chittagong. Now, reports suggest plans for a joint naval exercise in the Bay of Bengal and Bangladesh’s participation in the AMAN 2025 multinational naval drills in Karachi from February 7 to February 11.

Defense expert Major General Ashok Kumar (Retd.) commented, “The current government’s affinity for Pakistan is growing steadily. Pakistani diplomats and military leaders are showing increased interest in deepening relations with Bangladesh. This could pose challenges for India.”

Economic and Diplomatic Advancements

Direct flights between Islamabad and Dhaka have resumed after five years, and visa requirements for Pakistani nationals have been eased. Furthermore, Bangladesh has invited Pakistan to participate in a January trade exhibition. Pakistani cargo ships will also dock at Chittagong port without inspections.

Major General Ashok Kumar (Retd.) highlighted concerns, stating, “Previously, ISI operations in Bangladesh were covert. Now, under the current government, such activities may take place openly, potentially targeting India.”

Historical Context and Strategic Implications

The Pakistani Jamaat played a significant role in Sheikh Hasina’s ousting, straining Bangladesh-India relations. Pakistan now appears to be re-establishing influence in Bangladesh. The growing strategic and military ties could compel India to reassess its regional strategy.

Bangladesh’s participation in AMAN 2025 and joint exercises reflects a deepening military partnership with Pakistan. As economic and diplomatic ties solidify under Yunus’s leadership, the implications for regional geopolitics are significant, particularly for India.