Islamabad: Bangladesh’s potential participation in the Makkah Pact could enhance regional security, according to Sardar Masood Khan, former Ambassador of Pakistan to the United States, China, and the United Nations, as well as former President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. He characterized the emerging defense arrangement as an open mechanism designed to bolster security and strategic autonomy for countries aiming to safeguard their sovereignty and independence.

According to President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, the statement from Bangladesh about possible engagement with the Makkah Pact is significant within the context of evolving regional dynamics. Sardar Masood Khan highlighted the shared cultural, social, and historical bonds between Pakistan and Bangladesh, emphasizing their mutual interest in regional peace and stability.

He clarified that the Makkah Pact is an inclusive and defensive agreement, not aimed at any specific state, and is intended to enhance collective deterrence and protect the sovereignty of its participants. While there has been speculation about Iran’s future involvement, Sardar Masood Khan noted that its participation is unlikely in the near term due to existing regional tensions.

Bangladesh shares common interests with countries like Pakistan, Türkiye, and Saudi Arabia, focusing on the protection of Muslim communities and opposing Islamophobia, according to Sardar Masood Khan. He stated that Bangladesh’s potential involvement in the pact is not targeted against any nation but could offer a broader regional security framework.

Sardar Masood Khan remarked that Bangladesh is seeking greater strategic autonomy and mechanisms to protect its national interests, while maintaining a pragmatic relationship with India. He asserted that Bangladesh’s engagement with the Makkah Pact should not be viewed as hostile by India but as an opportunity for developing regional security partnerships.

He also mentioned that both Pakistan and Bangladesh are challenging the notion of regional hegemony, with Bangladesh increasingly striving for strategic independence. Participation in a wider defense network could provide Bangladesh with greater strategic space and contribute to regional stability in the Muslim and South Asian regions.