PAKISTAN and Bangladesh share a common history in the struggle for independence, as both were colonies of the British and endured socio-economic injustice, political brutality and Hindu domination.

Both nations sought liberation under the visionary leadership of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, who championed the idea of Muslim nationhood based on the Two-Nation Theory. Despite differences in socio-cultural backgrounds, geographical distance and linguistic diversity, the two communities united against a common adversary. However, interference by New Delhi and Moscow in 1971 led to the forceful dismemberment of the country, leaving a painful and complex legacy marked by bitter, lasting narratives. Pakistan officially recognized Bangladesh in 1974, established diplomatic relations in 1976 and demonstrated a commitment to fostering peaceful coexistence.

Since the establishment of Bangladesh, Pakistan tried its best to cover the bleeding wounds through brotherly cooperation to the new country so that they could manage their socio-economic challenges and difficulties, but it was not possible in the presence of India’s influence. However, in the beginning, Pakistan’s diplomatic relations with the centre-right Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) run by Ziaur Rahman and Khalida Zia were better, but relations with the centre-left Awami League (AL) led by Sheikh Hasina Wajid were hostile........

© Pakistan Observer