Bangladesh considers joining Saudi-Pakistan-Türkiye defence agreement

Bangladesh is considering the possibility of joining a defence agreement between Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Türkiye, according to a senior government adviser.

Bangladeshi Prime Minister’s Adviser Humayun Kabir said Dhaka follows a “Bangladesh First” policy and is prepared to consider participation in an economic or defence alliance based on the country’s national interests and the changing international environment, NDTV reported.

The Mecca Agreement was signed by Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Türkiye on August 7. Under the agreement, an armed attack against any one of the three countries is to be treated as an attack against all participating states.

Bangladesh’s potential participation would therefore mark a possible expansion of the emerging defence arrangement beyond its three founding members.

By Tamilla Hasanova