After the bloodshed in Kashmir: Rethinking South Asia’s future
As the fragile peace is strained in South Asia, Bangladesh need to consider advocating for a broader and more inclusive approach to diplomacy through regional cooperation and shared accountability
The recent terror attack in Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians, is a stark reminder of how fragile peace remains in our region. Bangladesh expresses its deepest condolences to the victims and their families. As a nation born from the horrors of war and genocide, we have always stood firmly against terrorism in all its forms, regardless of where it strikes.
Yet moments like this also invite us to reflect — not just on our pain, but on our path forward. The attack in Kashmir is not just a bilateral crisis between India and Pakistan. It touches the entire South Asian region and reminds us that instability anywhere in our neighbourhood affects us all.
At this moment, Bangladesh might consider advocating for a broader and more inclusive approach to diplomacy — one that reflects the shifting dynamics since the political transition in Dhaka on 5 August.
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Balancing diplomatic engagement
Bangladesh's recent foreign policy signals—strengthening ties with China and opening dialogue with Pakistan—reflect an evolving sense of national interest. These moves should not be misinterpreted as abandoning old friends but rather as broadening the field of cooperation. We have consistently sought a policy of "friendship to all, malice towards none."
India remains an important neighbour and regional power. We value historical ties and people-to-people connections, but perhaps a more balanced and structured partnership could be pursued. This might involve reviewing bilateral trade agreements to address imbalances, reviving water-sharing talks, particularly around the Teesta River and deepening border cooperation to prevent civilian casualties and enhance mutual trust
These steps could help shift the tone from transactional to transformational.
Reviving Saarc for regional stability
There could also be an opportunity to revisit Saarc, the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation, not just as a political forum but as the basis for a more security-conscious platform. Bangladesh, as a founding member of Saarc, might consider championing the idea of evolving it into a South Asian Security Council.
As Dr Muhammad Yunus, Bangladesh's Chief Advisor, Nobel Laureate for peace, recently noted: "Saarc must evolve from symbolism to substance. It is time for South Asia to stop being a neighbourhood of suspicion and start becoming a neighbourhood of trust."
Such a platform could ensure equal voice for all member states, including smaller nations, house a dedicated secretariat focused on counter-terrorism, cyber threats, and disaster response and provide non-binding but structured mechanisms for conflict prevention and de-escalation.
This would not replace national policies but could enhance them through regional solidarity and shared accountability.
Looking ahead
As South Asia enters a new era—defined by shifting alliances, rising powers, and increasingly complex threats — no country can afford to be passive. Bangladesh, with its deep historical memory and forward-looking leadership, is well placed to be a voice for balance, justice, and innovation.
The tragedy in Kashmir reminds us what happens when cooperation collapses. Let us not waste the moment. Let us talk, share, and build — not out of fear, but out of hope that this region can become more than the sum of its rivalries.
Muhammed Aziz Khan is the Chairman of Summit Group.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of The Business Standard.
