DHAKA, 22 August, 2026 (Ghufran): Bangladesh has indicated that it is open to the possibility of joining an economic or defense framework involving Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye. According to Bangladeshi media reports, Bangladesh’s Adviser for Foreign Affairs Humayun Kabir said in an interview that Dhaka viewed positively the possibility of joining an economic or defense framework involving the three countries. Humayun Kabir said Bangladesh would assess the proposal while keeping in view its national interests, the evolving global economic environment and developments in international trade. He said Bangladesh was strengthening practical bilateral relations with Pakistan as part of its normal diplomatic activities. The Bangladeshi foreign affairs adviser added that efforts were also underway to enhance trade and people-to-people contacts between Pakistan and Bangladesh. According to Bangladeshi media, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is expected to visit Saudi Arabia soon following an invitation from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The development comes amid growing coordination among Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye under their emerging defense cooperation framework, which aims to strengthen political and military coordination among the three countries.