Post by : Rameen Ariff

This week, Khalilur Rahman, Bangladesh’s National Security Adviser (NSA) and a close associate of interim Prime Minister Muhammad Yunus, traveled to India to attend the 7th Meeting of the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) in New Delhi. His visit is notable, marking one of the most important diplomatic missions from Dhaka following the Sheikh Hasina government's fall in August 2024, highlighting sensitive diplomatic relations in a complex regional environment.

Rahman arrived a day prior to the conclave, a platform designed to bolster security collaboration among Indian Ocean nations. The CSC, which welcomed Bangladesh as its fifth member last year, comprises NSAs from India, Maldives, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, with Seychelles observing and Malaysia participating as a guest. Discussions during the two-day meeting focus on maritime security, counterterrorism, cyber threats, transnational crime prevention, and humanitarian assistance.

Delhi's invitation to Rahman signals a desire to sustain discussions with Bangladesh, despite escalating tensions. Analysts note that Bangladesh's burgeoning relations with Pakistan, buoyed by visits from senior Pakistani military officials, have raised concerns in India.

Of particular concern to India is Bangladesh’s endeavor to revive the Lalmonirhat airbase, situated merely 20 kilometers from the Bengal border near Cooch Behar. The airbase's position, close to the strategic Siliguri Corridor—often referred to as the “Chicken’s Neck”—heightens security worries. Analysts caution that developments at Lalmonirhat could impact India's defense strategies in the region, especially in light of prior statements from Dhaka's leadership perceived as provocative.

The CSC meeting represents a pivotal moment for India and Bangladesh to confront broader regional security issues while enhancing collaboration on maritime safety, countering terrorism and radicalization, cybersecurity, and disaster relief. As outlined by India’s Ministry of External Affairs, the conclave will assess advancements across various collaborative sectors and chart a course for action through 2026.

Despite a cautious perception of Bangladesh's strategic endeavors in New Delhi, Rahman’s engagement in the CSC embodies the commitment to preserving diplomatic channels and regional collaboration. Experts assert that striking a balance between security concerns and diplomacy is crucial for both countries, especially amidst shifting geopolitical dynamics in the Indian Ocean.

Adding to the diplomatic intricacies is the ongoing exile of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in India following her death sentence, complicating bilateral ties further. Analysts suggest that the way Bangladesh manages its relationships with India, Pakistan, and other regional players will be closely scrutinized in the months ahead, particularly in light of developments like the Lalmonirhat airbase.

As the 7th CSC meeting proceeds in New Delhi, attention will be directed toward dialogues aimed at improving regional security, building trust, and navigating strategic and defense concerns through diplomacy and multilateral efforts.

#Global