Bangladesh views the 'Mecca Defence Pact' involving Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey positively and is open to participating in such security initiatives among Islamic nations, according to State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir. He noted that Dhaka's participation in such an initiative would not be unusual, especially given the significance of Mecca to Bangladesh's predominantly Muslim population.
Bangladesh's Interest in the Pact
Humaiun Kobir stated, 'We have expressed interest in the Mecca Defence Pact. So, if something happens in the Middle East, like a security pact among Islamic nations, it isn't unusual to participate. Let's see. It's being viewed positively.' The state minister highlighted Bangladesh's growing recognition and increasing interest from stakeholders in the Middle East and elsewhere in engaging with Dhaka.
Referring to Bangladesh's longstanding ties with Saudi Arabia and the significance of Mecca to the country's population, Kobir emphasized, 'Mecca is in the heart of Bangladesh and in the hearts of the people.' He made these remarks during an interaction with journalists on his first working day at the foreign ministry after assuming his new responsibility.
New Phase in Foreign Policy
Kobir, who previously served as the Prime Minister's Adviser on Foreign Affairs, indicated that Bangladesh's foreign policy had entered a new phase. The government is now seeking to deepen bilateral and multilateral relations and enhance the country's visibility and influence globally. He mentioned that the government had developed a strategic framework for Bangladesh's foreign policy over the past six months and would now roll out its engagements from that foundation.
The new phase of Bangladesh's foreign policy will focus on adding greater substance to bilateral and multilateral relationships while taking the country's international visibility and influence to new heights. Earlier this month, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan signed a defence agreement under which an attack on one of the three countries would be considered an attack on all, according to reports.
