Pakistan–Bangladesh Bonhomie: A New Challenge for India's Neighbourhood Policy?

The economic condition of both Pakistan and Bangladesh remains fragile, yet the two neighbours have recently taken steps to strengthen bilateral ties. In a surprising diplomatic move, they signed a series of agreements in Dhaka covering trade, education, media, diplomacy, cultural exchange, and government cooperation.

Given that both countries share borders with India, this development raises the question: Does this growing closeness signal a new challenge for India in South Asia?

What Agreements Were Signed?

For the first time in 13 years, a Pakistani foreign minister visited Bangladesh. Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar signed agreements with Bangladesh’s Foreign Advisor MD Tauheed Hussain.

Key agreements include:

• Visa abolition for diplomatic passport holders

• Formation of a joint working group on trade

• Collaboration between the foreign service academies of both nations

• Media cooperation between government news agencies

• Cultural exchange programs

• Partnerships between strategic institutions

• Pakistan’s announcement of 500 scholarships for Bangladeshi students

Why Is This Significant for India?

This newfound closeness is being viewed as a diplomatic warning for New Delhi. At a time when India–Pakistan relations remain tense, Islamabad’s engagement with Dhaka could weaken India’s influence in the region.

Analysts suggest this could even be linked to China’s “String of Pearls” strategy, aimed at diplomatically and strategically encircling India.

Trade and Strategic Implications

If Bangladesh develops stronger trade ties with Pakistan, India’s exporters may face competition in areas where Bangladesh previously relied on Indian partners.

Meanwhile, initiatives like Pakistan’s “Knowledge Corridor” and scholarships for Bangladeshi students could boost its soft power influence in Dhaka.

The Bigger Picture

Despite their own fragile economies, Pakistan and Bangladesh are visibly increasing cooperation. Experts argue this move is less about economics and more about politics—a symbolic gesture that could alter the power balance in South Asia and complicate India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy.