Pakistan, Bangladesh military officials vow stronger ties against ‘external influence’

The top military leadership of Pakistan and Bangladesh pledged to enhance their partnership by countering 'external influences' and fostering bilateral cooperation across various sectors.

Once part of a united nation, the two countries were separated following a deadly civil war in 1971, which led to the creation of Bangladesh. Decades later, their relationship appears to be improving.

With the recent ouster of Sheikh Hasina Wajid's pro-India government, Bangladesh's interim administration has shown a willingness to renew ties with Islamabad. This shift has been accompanied by growing cooperation in trade and other fields.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Lieutenant General S.M. Kamrul Hassan, the Principal Staff Officer (PSO) of the Armed Forces Division of Bangladesh, recently visited Pakistan and held discussions with Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir at the General Headquarters in Rawalpindi.

“The COAS and the PSO underscored the importance of a stronger defense relationship, emphasizing that the enduring partnership between the two brotherly nations must remain resilient against external influences,” the ISPR stated.

Amid the security challenges in South Asia, COAS General Asim Munir highlighted the need for increased collaboration in military and defense sectors to promote regional peace and stability.

Bangladeshi military leaders praised the professionalism of Pakistan’s armed forces and acknowledged their sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, describing these efforts as a “beacon of courage and determination.”

Lieutenant General Hassan also met Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) General Sahir Shamshad Mirza at the Joint Staff Headquarters.

The two senior military officials discussed mutual strategic interests and vowed to enhance defense collaboration between their nations.

“Both sides emphasised the importance of strengthening military ties and reaffirmed their commitment to insulating this partnership from any external disruptions,” the ISPR added. They also stressed the critical need for continued cooperation to promote peace, security, and stability in the region.