In a rare and significant visit, a senior military official from Bangladesh, Lieutenant General S M Kamr-ul-Hassan, visited Pakistan to meet with key military leaders in Rawalpindi. The visit, which took place on January 15, 2025, is a clear sign of improving relations between the two neighboring countries. General Hassan, who is the Principal Staff Officer (PSO) of the Armed Forces Division of Bangladesh, is the second-highest military officer in Bangladesh. His visit marks the first time in many years that such a senior Bangladeshi military leader has traveled to Islamabad.
Lieutenant General Hassan was accompanied by a high-level delegation of senior officers from the Bangladesh Army. The visit is seen as an important step in the thawing of relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh, particularly after political changes in Bangladesh following the ousting of the Sheikh Hasina government in August 2024. For many years, the relationship between Pakistan and Bangladesh had been quite tense, with Sheikh Hasina’s government repeatedly rejecting peace efforts from Pakistan. However, since her departure from office, there has been a noticeable shift toward improved diplomatic ties.
During his visit, General Hassan held separate meetings with Pakistan’s top military officials, including General Syed Asim Munir, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), and General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC). These meetings were significant in discussing various aspects of defense cooperation and regional security.
In his meeting with General Munir, the two generals discussed the changing security dynamics in the region and explored ways to strengthen the defense relationship between Pakistan and Bangladesh. They emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong defense partnership that could stand firm against external challenges. General Munir underscored the need for joint efforts to promote peace and stability in South Asia, stressing that both countries must continue to collaborate to ensure regional security.
In his meeting with General Mirza at the Joint Staff Headquarters (JSHQ), Lt-Gen Hassan discussed issues of mutual strategic interest. Both sides agreed that strengthening military ties was crucial for promoting regional peace, security, and stability. They emphasized the importance of insulating their defense cooperation from any external disruptions. General Mirza and Lt-Gen Hassan also expressed their shared vision for a secure and prosperous future, supported by robust defense collaboration.
General Hassan also took the opportunity to praise the professionalism of the Pakistan Armed Forces. He expressed admiration for the sacrifices made by Pakistan’s military, particularly in the fight against terrorism. He acknowledged the resilience and dedication of Pakistan’s armed forces and their critical role in ensuring security in the region.
This visit reflects a significant shift in the relationship between Pakistan and Bangladesh, with both countries working towards a stronger partnership that could contribute positively to regional stability. The discussions held during this visit are expected to pave the way for further cooperation in areas of mutual defense interest, helping to build a lasting bond between the two nations.
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