Pakistani cargo vessel docking at Bangladesh's Chittagong Port marks a key South Asian shift.
The docking of a Pakistani cargo vessel at Bangladesh’s Chittagong Port, marking the first direct maritime trade connection between the two countries since the 1971 Liberation War, signals a significant geopolitical shift in South Asia. This development, under Bangladesh’s new leadership led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus, underscores the need for India to recalibrate its engagement with its eastern neighbor to counter growing Pakistani and Chinese influences.
Under Sheikh Hasina’s tenure, India and Bangladesh enjoyed robust ties, marked by economic cooperation and strategic collaboration. Conversely, Pakistan’s influence was marginalized, with Islamabad facing setbacks like the denial of docking rights for its Chinese-built warship *PNS Taimur* in 2022. The revival of maritime trade between Pakistan and Bangladesh represents a breakthrough for Islamabad and raises concerns for India.
The implications of this maritime link are far-reaching. Chittagong Port’s proximity to Myanmar and its strategic location make it a key node in regional geopolitics. Historically, the port has been a point of concern for India, notably after the 2004 arms haul involving Chinese-origin weapons allegedly linked to Pakistan’s ISI. With Pakistan now gaining direct access, India must be vigilant about potential security challenges, including the misuse of sea channels for destabilizing activities.
Adding to India’s concerns is China’s potential to leverage this renewed Pakistan-Bangladesh partnership. Beijing has long sought influence in South Asia, with investments in infrastructure and maritime projects under its Belt and Road Initiative. A closer Pakistan-Bangladesh alignment could open doors for China to deepen its footprint in the Bay of Bengal, undermining India’s strategic interests.
To counter these developments, India must strengthen its diplomatic and economic engagement with the new regime in Dhaka. Expanding trade ties, accelerating infrastructure projects, and reinforcing people-to-people connections will be crucial. Additionally, India must proactively address Dhaka’s concerns, such as resolving water-sharing disputes and facilitating smoother trade logistics, to ensure that Bangladesh views India as its primary partner.
