ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has outrightly rejected Indian observations regarding Pakistan–Bangladesh cooperation in construction and other key sectors, including defence-related engagements.
Highly placed sources dealing with Foreign Affairs told The News/Jang on Saturday evening that New Delhi has no locus standi to comment on the nature or scope of relations between Islamabad and Dhaka. The sources maintained that bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and Bangladesh is a sovereign matter and does not require validation or approval from any third country.
“The Indian observations regarding the potential procurement of JF-17 Thunder multi-role fighter aircraft by Bangladesh are totally misplaced and unwarranted,” the sources said, adding that such remarks reflect unnecessary interference in bilateral affairs. Earlier, India had stated that it was closely observing discussions between Pakistan and Bangladesh concerning the possible procurement of JF-17 Thunder fighter aircraft, emphasising that New Delhi monitors all developments that may have implications for its national security.
“We keep a close watch on all developments that have a bearing on our national security,” Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said during the weekly media briefing. Responding to a question pertaining to the resumption of direct flights between Dhaka and Karachi from January 29, and whether India’s permission would be required for the use of Indian airspace, Jaiswal said such matters would be managed under existing arrangements. “These issues will be dealt with as per the air services agreement with Bangladesh,” he added.
The Indian spokesperson also raised concerns over the situation of minorities in Bangladesh and emphasised that “such communal incidents need to be addressed swiftly and firmly.” In response to questions regarding national elections in Bangladesh and Myanmar, which have been described by some observers as not fully inclusive due to the absence of major political parties, the MEA spokesperson reiterated India’s stated support for inclusive electoral processes. “We call for inclusive elections so that the outcomes carry credibility,” he said.
Interestingly, India itself has been providing shelter on its soil to former Bangladeshi prime minister Sheikh Hasina Wajid, who has reportedly been handed a death sentence by a Dhaka court for what were described as heinous crimes. She was a removed prime minister of Bangladesh and had been heading the now-outlawed Awami League party, a development that has also drawn criticism from various quarters.
