DHAKA – Bangladesh has hinted at joining an economic or defence framework involving Pakistan, Türkiye and Saudi Arabia, signalling a potential expansion of its strategic ties with the three countries.
Bangladesh’s Adviser for Foreign Affairs Humayun Kabir said Dhaka viewed the possibility of joining such a framework positively, while stressing that any decision would be based on the country’s national interests and the changing global economic and trade environment.
The development could mark a significant step in Bangladesh-Pakistan relations and potentially broaden regional cooperation among Muslim-majority countries.
Kabir said Bangladesh was strengthening practical bilateral relations with Pakistan through regular diplomatic engagement. He added that Dhaka was also working to increase trade and people-to-people contacts between the two countries.
The remarks come amid growing efforts by regional countries to enhance cooperation in defence, trade, investment and other strategic areas.
Kabir did not indicate that Bangladesh had made any formal decision to join the proposed framework. Instead, he said Dhaka would consider the matter in accordance with its national interests and broader international developments.
Meanwhile, Bangladeshi media reports that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is expected to visit Saudi Arabia soon following an invitation from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
The visit is expected to provide an opportunity for discussions on bilateral relations, economic cooperation and regional developments.
Bangladesh’s indication of interest comes as Pakistan, Türkiye and Saudi Arabia seek to deepen cooperation in strategic and economic fields.
Any future decision by Dhaka to participate in a defence arrangement would depend on further consultations and a formal assessment by the Bangladeshi government.
