Among the many surprises brought about by the drastic political changes in Bangladesh that resulted in the removal of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina last year was the strengthening of ties between Dhaka and its erstwhile adversary, Pakistan.
Dhaka imported 50,000 tonnes of rice from Pakistan this month, marking the first direct trade between the two nations after decades of tense relations. Additionally, there are claims of cooperation on security issues, the resuscitation of direct flights and military ties, and the simplification of visa procedures.
Despite being divided by India’s landmass, the nations share a long and bitter history together. When Bangladesh, then known as East Pakistan, began its fight for independence from Islamabad in 1971, their hostility began.
