Major Policy Change: Visa Security Clearance Dropped
On December 2, Bangladesh’s caretaker government rescinded the security clearance requirement for Pakistani nationals who wanted to apply for visas. It is a political goodwill measure to enhance ties, and the move reverses a 2019 policy implemented when the two countries were at each other’s throats.
Economic Cooperation Takes Off
November marked the resumption of direct cargo shipping between Karachi and Chittagong, an important step toward increasing bilateral trade. In addition, negotiations are underway to reinstate direct flights between the two countries, which were suspended in 2018. Pakistan has also waived visa fees for Bangladeshi citizens, making travel easier for business, tourism, and cultural exchanges.
Political Context and Historical Divergences
The warming ties happen coincidentally with a visit by Pakistan’s High Commissioner Syed Ahmad Maroof to Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader Khaleda Zia, a party known for its pro-Pakistan stance. The Awami League of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has traditionally been closer to India. This sets the context of possible realignments in Bangladesh’s politics.
Geopolitical and Strategic Implications
Experts see these steps as part of a larger strategy by Bangladesh to diversify its diplomatic relationships. Bangladesh maintains relations with India but, in doing so, sends a signal that it is willing to look elsewhere for alliances, including Pakistan. This has implications for India, particularly in terms of its northeastern security, where a closer Bangladesh-Pakistan relationship would add complexity to regional dynamics.
Balancing Act for Bangladesh
Bangladesh’s new direction therefore represents an attempt to rebalance its foreign policy. Bangladesh may challenge India’s preeminence, and while doing so, would also have to tread carefully in relation with the rest of global power, especially the US which sees South Asia essentially in terms of India’s strategic interests. Whether Bangladesh will be able to sustain this balance in the future is a serious concern for regional stability.
