The government is carefully evaluating the geopolitical situation surrounding the proposed Mecca Pact before deciding whether to join the alliance, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam announced on Tuesday.
Addressing journalists at Foreign Ministry this morning, Shama made it clear that Dhaka’s national interests will remain the paramount factor in any decision regarding the country’s participation in the proposed grouping.
She noted, however, that Bangladesh has not yet received a formal invitation to become a member.
Her comments come amid ongoing discussions over the alliance, which currently involves Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Türkiye.
Previously, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir expressed Bangladesh’s interest and positive outlook regarding the initiative.
Speaking on Sunday after a meeting with the Saudi Ambassador to Bangladesh Abdullah Zafer bin Abiyah, Kobir asserted that joining the defence agreement poses no risk to the nation and would not restrict its engagement with other international partners.
Kobir characterised the pact as a unique initiative presenting new opportunities. Elaborating on Dhaka’s receptive stance, he remarked that “Mecca is in the heart of Bangladesh”.
The Mecca Joint Defence Agreement, also known as “Mecca Pact”, was officially signed on 7 August, with Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey as its partners.
