Dhaka:Former Ambassador M. Humayun Kabir has emphasized the importance of careful consideration before Bangladesh decides to join the Makkah Pact. He highlighted that the decision should not be driven by emotion, as the agreement was signed by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye primarily for their security interests.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Kabir expressed skepticism about the Makkah Pact's framework, questioning its ability to unite and protect the interests of the Muslim world. He stressed the complexity of the decision for Bangladesh, urging for thoughtful analysis rather than emotional responses.
Kabir shared these views during a shadow parliament debate on the Makkah Pact at the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation. He also raised concerns about sending troops to Saudi Arabia, suggesting that a bilateral arrangement might be more suitable than joining the pact.
He warned of potential adverse effects on Bangladesh's labor market and remittance inflows if the conflict in the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, continues. Kabir noted that joining the Makkah Pact could lead to the formation of another axis by India, Israel, and the UAE, threatening regional security and economic stability.
The debate was chaired by Debate for Democracy Chairman Hassan Ahamed Chowdhury Kiron, who remarked on the severe crisis facing the Muslim world, including issues of persecution and displacement. Kiron criticized the ineffectiveness of organizations like the OIC and the GCC, questioning the Makkah Pact's potential effectiveness in resolving these crises.
Kiron emphasized the need for Bangladesh to leverage the Makkah Pact to protect its national interests, focusing on labor market expansion, attracting Saudi investment, and addressing the Rohingya crisis. The event concluded with a debate competition, where Ananda Mohan College emerged victorious over Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University.