ISLAMABAD: Top Pakistani and Bangladeshi commanders met in Islamabad and discussed military education and joint training to deepen bilateral defense cooperation, the Pakistani military said late Thursday, amid warming relations between the two countries.

The statement by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) came after Bangladesh Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan’s visit to the National Defense University in Islamabad being an alumnus National Security and War Course 2010-11.

The visiting dignitary called on NDU President Lt. Gen. Babar Iftikhar and discussed defense cooperation between the two countries among affairs of mutual interest.

“Both sides reaffirmed the importance of military-to-military engagement, particularly in the domain of professional military education and joint training,” the ISPR said.

“The visit underscores the strong historical ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh and reflects a shared resolve to deepen defense cooperation and training.”

Pakistan and Bangladesh were part of the same country until Bangladesh’s secession following a bloody civil war in 1971, an event that long cast a shadow over bilateral ties. Both countries have moved closer since August 2024, following the ouster of former premier Sheikh Hasina in a violent uprising.

Islamabad has stepped up efforts to rebuild relations with Bangladesh as ties between Dhaka and New Delhi remain strained over India’s decision to grant asylum to Hasina after she fled the country.

Air Chief Marshal Khan, who arrived in Pakistan this week, has met top military commanders, including Chief of Defense Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir, during his visit.

“Matters of mutual interest, regional security dynamics and avenues for enhancing bilateral defense and military cooperation were discussed,” the ISPR said, following his meeting with Munir.

On Wednesday, Pakistan’s Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu and Khan held talks on the possible procurement of ‌the ⁠JF-17 ​Thunder, ‌a multi-role combat aircraft jointly developed with China, in Islamabad.