What Are Pakistan and Bangladesh Discussing About 'Regional Stability'?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Pakistan and Bangladesh are prioritizing diplomacy in light of rising tensions with India.
- Regional peace is a significant concern for both nations.
- Strengthening bilateral relations can enhance cooperation.
- Pakistan seeks support from global players like the United States.
- India's actions regarding water resources are viewed critically by Pakistan.
Islamabad, May 6 (NationPress) Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar spoke with Bangladesh's Foreign Affairs Advisor Touhid Hossein on Tuesday, informing him about the rising tensions with India and expressing serious concerns regarding regional stability and security.
Details reveal that Dar presented Islamabad's stance on the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, refuting India's allegations that have prompted unilateral actions from both nations, including the halting of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT).
Touhid Hossein highlighted the importance of exercising patience and underscored the need to de-escalate tensions to preserve regional peace.
Both representatives reaffirmed their dedication to enhancing and strengthening bilateral relations through collaborative efforts in both regional and international forums.
Pakistan's increasing rapport with Bangladesh following the ousting of the Sheikh Hasina government in Dhaka last August is viewed as a significant opportunity for Islamabad to gain further support and cooperation.
In the current context, experts suggest that Islamabad's primary support base is China, while Bangladesh could serve as a crucial ally in the event of escalating conflict with India, as noted by senior geopolitical analyst Kamran Yousaf.
Pakistan has been actively seeking alliances with multiple countries to garner support against India, even as both nations proceed toward what could escalate into a major confrontation.
“Pakistan is making diplomatic efforts to engage global powers, such as the United States, to intervene and use their influence to encourage New Delhi to de-escalate tensions, particularly regarding the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), which remains a top priority for Islamabad,” Yousaf added.
Islamabad has consistently asserted that it holds no direct or indirect connection to the Pahalgam event and has called for an impartial and credible investigation into the accusations put forth by India.
Furthermore, Pakistan has cautioned that any Indian attempt to obstruct its water supply would be perceived as an “act of war”, with the Defence Minister Khawaja Asif threatening to demolish any new constructions made by India to divert its water resources.