Karachi, September 3, 2024 – The Global and Regional Studies Center (IoBM) at the Institute of Business Management (IoBM) hosted a seminar on "Understanding Political Developments in Bangladesh and the Future of Pakistan-Bangladesh Relations" on September 3, 2024. The event brought together national experts in international relations who shared in-depth discussions on Bangladesh's evolving political landscape and its impact on relations with Pakistan. Present on this occasion were IoBM's President, Mr. Talib Karim; Rector, Prof. Dr. Tariq Rahim Soomro; Dean CBM, Dr. Muhammad Kashif; Dean CCSIS, Dr. Muhammad Abbas; Dean CESD, Dr. Nadia Ayub; Dr. Shahida Wizarat, along with HoDs, management, faculty, and students representing the Center for International Strategic Studies.
The distinguished panelists included Ambassador Dr. Masuma Hasan, Chairperson, Pakistan Institute of International Affairs; Ambassador Qazi Khalilullah, Executive Director, Center for International Strategic Studies; Professor Noman Ahmed, Dean, Faculty of Architecture and Sciences at NED University; Ambassador Rafiuzzaman Siddiqui, Advisor to the Sindh Ombudsman; and Dr. Nausheen Wasi, Head of the International Relations Department at Karachi University. The session was moderated by Ambassador G. R. Baluch, Director, GRSC-IoBM, who opened the seminar with a comprehensive overview of the historical context shaping current geopolitical dynamics, effectively setting the theme for the seminar. The panelists enlightened the audience by exploring the social and economic factors contributing to student agitation in Bangladesh leading to the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, and by outlining a strategic roadmap for strengthening Pakistan-Bangladesh relations.
During his address, Mr. Talib Karim, emphasized the importance of Pakistan repairing its relationships with regional neighbors. He commended Ambassador G. R. Baluch for choosing a timely and relevant topic, noting that it provided valuable lessons for the participants. Ambassador Dr. Masuma noted that the future of Pakistan-Bangladesh relations will largely hinge on Bangladesh’s ability to achieve political stability following Sheikh Hasina’s ousting. She remarked, “We must remain cognizant of the nation’s tumultuous history. Emerging from the bloodshed of 1971, Bangladesh’s past is marked by a series of coups, counter-coups, assassinations, and mass murders, including the assassination of its founder.”
Ambassador Rafiuzzaman Siddiqui reflected on his experiences in Bangladesh, including his 2016 tenure as High Commissioner. He provided insights into the socio-economic landscape and described Sheikh Hasina's authoritarian rule, noting that criticism of her father was harshly punished and that India's silence during this period contributed to local unease. During his speech, Ambassador Qazi Khalilullah reviewed the evolution of India-Bangladesh relations, highlighting key agreements, and their role in strengthening economic collaboration and regional stability, with a focus on the future of SAARC. While discussing the political shifts, Dr. Nausheen Wasi discussed their regional impact, noting that the overthrowing of Sheikh Hasina’s government has sparked a strong demand for accountability among the Bangladeshi people. Furthermore, Professor Noman Ahmed provided a deep analysis of Bengali nationalism, focusing on the impact of intellectual discourse following the British occupation and how historical events have shaped Bangladesh's identity. The seminar concluded with an engaging question and answer session, providing attendees with an opportunity to interact further with the panelists and explore the topics discussed.