India closely monitoring Bangladesh’s interest in Makkah defense pact, says MEA spokesperson

TBM Report ||

New Delhi is closely assessing Bangladesh’s expressed interest in joining the newly formed “Makkah Defense Pact”—a multilateral security arrangement between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey—according to India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

Addressing reporters during a weekly press briefing in New Delhi on Friday (August 21, 2026), MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addressed questions regarding Dhaka’s potential participation in the alliance.

“We are keeping a close watch on ongoing developments in West Asia and surrounding regions,” Jaiswal stated. “Regarding this specific pact, we are analyzing its potential implications for India’s national security, regional stability, and broader strategic environment.”

Reiterating New Delhi’s firm stance on safeguarding its border and strategic concerns, Jaiswal emphasized that India remains fully committed to protecting its national interests through necessary diplomatic and security measures.

The statement comes shortly after Foreign Affairs Adviser Humayun Kabir indicated Bangladesh’s interest in joining the alliance during a recent media interview, marking India’s first official reaction to the development.

During the same briefing, Jaiswal addressed queries regarding an upcoming state visit to India by Bangladeshi Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, noting that no schedule has been finalized yet. He added that technical discussions are ongoing through the Joint Rivers Commission regarding the renewal of the 1996 Ganges Water Sharing Treaty, which is set to expire in December.