ISLAMABAD: Military leaders from Pakistan and Bangladesh on Tuesday agreed to strengthen defence cooperation and collaborate on promoting regional peace and stability during a rare high-level meeting in Rawalpindi.

Lt Gen S.M. Kamrul Hassan, the principal staff officer (PSO) of Bangladesh’s armed forces division, met Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen Asim Munir and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee Gen Sahir Shamshad Mirza.

The discussions focused on evolving security challenges and expanding bilateral military collaboration, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement.

The leaders highlighted the importance of a resilient partnership between the two countries and agreed on joint efforts to address regional security dynamics. “The COAS and the PSO underscored the importance of a stronger defence relationship, emphasising that the enduring partnership between the two brotherly nations must remain resilient against external influences,” according to ISPR.

The visit, which is being seen as a significant step toward normalization, follows recent political changes in Bangladesh after the ouster of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina Wajed in student-led protest movement. The shift has paved the way for renewed ties between the two countries, which have been strained for decades due to historical grievances related to Bangladesh’s independence in 1971.

In meetings at Pakistan’s military headquarters, the leaders discussed joint defence initiatives, including counter-terrorism cooperation and intelligence sharing. Both sides reiterated their commitment to fostering peace and stability in South Asia, ISPR said.

Lt Gen Hassan, who heads Bangladesh’s armed forces division — a high-command body overseeing the country’s military — underscored the importance of building mutual trust and strengthening military relations.

Gen Munir also emphasised the significance of joint efforts to promote peace and stability in South Asia and the broader region.

Published in Dawn, January 15th, 2025