ISLAMABAD: The landslide victory of the Bangladesh National Party (BNP) is being seen as a diplomatic triumph for Pakistan and China. Both these countries are keen to bolster their friendly ties with Bangladesh as BNP leader Tarique Rehman is set to become the new Prime Minister of Bangladesh.
The ousted Prime Minister Hasina Wajid was known as an anti-Pakistan and anti-China. She always toes the Indian policy.
Pakistani leaders congratulated the Bangladesh National Party (BNP) on its historic electoral victory in Dhaka and expressed hope for deeper bilateral engagement.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended “warmest felicitations” to Tarique Rahman for leading the BNP to a resounding win in Bangladesh’s parliamentary elections. He also congratulated the people of Bangladesh for conducting successful polls. Moreover, Sharif said he looked forward to working closely with the new leadership to strengthen historic, brotherly ties and advance shared goals of peace, stability and development across South Asia.
President Asif Ali Zardari echoed the message, congratulating Rahman on the landslide victory and praising Bangladeshi voters for peaceful participation. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to democratic partnership and shared progress.
Relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh have improved since the 2024 Gen Z-led uprising that removed Sheikh Hasina from office. Subsequently, both countries initiated sea trade links and expanded government-to-government commerce last year.
BNP secures two-thirds majority as opposition concedes ground
The BNP secured a decisive two-thirds majority in general elections, a result widely seen as crucial for restoring stability after months of unrest. Domestic television channels reported that the BNP and its allies captured at least 212 of 299 contested seats in the Jatiya Sangsad. Meanwhile, Jamaat-e-Islami and its partners won 70 seats.
After confirming its majority in overnight counting, the BNP thanked voters and called for nationwide prayers. However, it directed supporters to avoid victory rallies despite the sweeping mandate.
The clear outcome eased concerns in the Muslim-majority nation of 175 million, where political turmoil had disrupted daily life and key export industries, particularly garments.
BNP leader Tarique Rahman, son of former president Ziaur Rahman, is widely expected to take oath as prime minister after returning to Dhaka in December.
