Shifting Alliances in South Asia: The Pakistan-Bangladesh Thaw and Its Implications for India
UPSC Relevance
Prelims: International Relations (India and its neighborhood, SAARC); Modern History (1971 Bangladesh Liberation War); Current events of national and international importance.
Mains:
General Studies Paper 2: India and its neighborhood- relations; Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests (SAARC); Effect of policies and politics of other countries on India’s interests (China's role).
Key Highlights from the News
For the first time in 13 years, Pakistan's Foreign Minister visited Dhaka, signaling a diplomatic thaw in relations between Bangladesh and Pakistan.
This significant change occurred after the fall of Sheikh Hasina's government in Bangladesh and the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus took power.
Both countries agreed to restore visa facilities, direct flight services, scholarships for students, and increase trade.
China's role is significant in this rapprochement. China initiated and organized a trilateral mechanism meeting.
However, old issues such as Pakistan officially apologizing for the 1971 genocide, providing financial compensation, and repatriating Stranded Pakistanis in Bangladesh still remain unresolved.
The article observes that Pakistan is approaching Bangladesh by exploiting the recent strain in India-Bangladesh ties.
This new situation poses a new challenge to India's neighborhood policy.
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