The Role of Regional Geopolitics in Shaping Pakistan-Bangladesh Relations in The 21st Century

Abstract

The relationship between Pakistan and Bangladesh in the 21st century is deeply shaped by evolving regional geopolitical dynamics. Historically strained due to the events surrounding Bangladesh’s independence in 1971, relations between the two nations remain complex, characterized by lingering distrust and historical grievances. However, the shifting balance of power in South Asia, driven by strategic alliances and regional competition, continues to redefine this bilateral relationship. Pakistan, keen on expanding its regional influence, views Bangladesh’s growing partnership with India as a strategic challenge. This dynamic has intensified Pakistan's efforts to engage Bangladesh diplomatically and economically, aiming to balance India’s expanding influence in the region. Conversely, Bangladesh is navigating its foreign policy with increasing autonomy, balancing relations with regional powers like India, China, and Pakistan to safeguard its national interests. Regional geopolitics, particularly the strategic rivalry between India and Pakistan and the rising influence of China in South Asia, significantly impact Pakistan-Bangladesh relations. Bangladesh's active participation in regional platforms like the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) further complicates the geopolitical landscape. Additionally, Bangladesh’s constitutional commitment to fostering fraternal ties with Pakistan, rooted in shared cultural and historical connections, presents opportunities for diplomatic engagement despite underlying tensions. This study explores how these geopolitical factors shape the diplomatic, economic, and strategic interactions between Pakistan and Bangladesh. It also examines whether Bangladesh can develop an independent and balanced foreign policy that allows it to engage Pakistan on its own terms. Understanding the role of regional geopolitics in this evolving relationship is crucial for predicting future developments and fostering a more stable and cooperative South Asian region.