Will Bangladesh join the Mecca Pact? State Foreign Minister's hint sparks fresh debate over Dhaka's next move

Bangladesh has indicated that it sees no immediate obstacle to joining the 'Makkah Joint Defence Agreement', a security pact currently involving Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkiye. Dhaka's latest remarks have strengthened speculation that Bangladesh could consider becoming part of the arrangement if it receives an invitation. State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir said Bangladesh's participation in the pact would not necessarily limit its relations or cooperation with other countries. He described the agreement as a development that could open up "new opportunities" while stressing that Dhaka's foreign policy would continue to remain flexible.