Bangladesh has traditionally depended on Chinese weapons and military equipment, but after the interim government led by Mohammad Yunus, its stance is now seen turning to Pakistan’s firm friend Turki. Ideological equality is also being seen between the two countries. While the influence of the fundamentalists on the Yunus government seems to be increasing, the Turki President Recep Tayyip Erdoan is dreaming of the return of the Khalifa period.
On Monday 21 July, the Yunus government sent Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan on a tour of Turki. He will meet his counterpart of Turki in Istanbul and interact on the purchase of military equipment. The purpose of this journey is to strengthen Bangladesh’s defense structure and promote strategic cooperation with Turks.
Turki blocks before Navy Chief’s visit to America
Earlier on July 16, Bangladesh Chief Admiral Mohammad Najmul Hasan left for the US on holiday, but according to Northeast News, he will also be on the official visit of Turki between 22 and 25 July. That is, both the Navy and Air Force of Bangladesh will be present in Istanbul. The journey is taking place at the invitation of the Turki Navy Commander.
Distance from China increased? Bijing tour canceled a sign
According to experts, this new stance can be a matter of concern for China. China has been a major supplier of military equipment to Bangladesh for years. But the cancellation of the Baming Yatra of Army Chief General Waqar-e-Zaman confirms this strategic change. The visit was proposed on the invitation of China’s People’s Liberation Army.
Purchase of Howyzer, Rocket and Light Tanks from Turkas
Bangladesh has already purchased MKE Boron 105 mm Hovitzer cannons from Turki. Last year 18 cannons were called. There is a plan to increase their number to 200 in future. Apart from this, the purchase of Turki Tulpar Tulpar Tulpar Tulpar light tanks with TRG-230 and TRG-300 rocket systems is also being considered.
Gorgun’s Dhaka visit increased the temperature of relations
On 8 July, Turki’s Defense Industry Secretary Haluk Gorgun visited Dhaka. He met the three Bangladesh chiefs-General Waqar-e-Zaman, Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan and Admiral Najmul Hasan. Apart from this, Gorgun also held secret talks with Chief Advisor Mohammad Yunus. The meeting was coordinated by the intelligence branch of the Armed Forces Division of Bangladesh.
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