Dhaka: Dhaka and Islamabad appear to be moving closer on the defence front. In a significant development, Bangladesh Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmud Khan on Thursday met Pakistan’s Chief of Defence Forces and Field Marshal Asim Munir. The meeting took place at the Pakistan Army Headquarters in Rawalpindi during Mahmud’s official visit to Pakistan.
According to a statement issued by the Pakistan Army, the two sides discussed issues of mutual interest, regional security concerns and avenues for strengthening bilateral defence cooperation. Both leaders underlined the importance of enhancing professional collaboration, training exchanges and sustained military engagement between the two countries.
Mahmud acknowledged Pakistan Army’s role in regional peacekeeping efforts, while Field Marshal Munir reaffirmed Islamabad’s commitment to maintaining and further deepening defence ties with Bangladesh.
The meeting comes close on the heels of Mahmud’s interaction with Pakistan Air Force Chief, where discussions reportedly included the possible acquisition of China-made JF-17 fighter aircraft. These engagements signal a growing defence dialogue between Dhaka and Islamabad.
On the same day, the Bangladesh Air Chief also held a separate meeting with Pakistan Navy Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf. Their discussions focused on bilateral defence cooperation and regional maritime security. Admiral Ashraf assured that the Pakistan Navy remains committed to ensuring peace and stability along vital sea routes. Both sides reiterated their intent to strengthen military-to-military relations.
Meanwhile, diplomatic engagements between the two countries have also picked up pace. On Wednesday night, Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain spoke over the phone with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. The conversation covered bilateral issues as well as recent regional developments, according to a post by Pakistan’s Foreign Office on social media.
In another sign of improving ties, direct air connectivity between Dhaka and Karachi is set to resume. The first flight on the route is scheduled for January 29. Bangladesh’s national carrier, Biman Bangladesh Airlines, has received clearance from Islamabad to operate the service on a trial basis.