After the Vietnam War, although the U.S. and Vietnam did not have diplomatic relations for many years, the two countries reestablished diplomatic ties in 1995. Their relationship improved later on, based on economic and trade interests.
In 1968, American soldiers entered a village in Vietnam and killed hundreds of innocent civilians. This was one of the most horrific incidents of the Vietnam War.
After the restoration of relations in 1995, commercial ties between the U.S. and Vietnam began to develop rapidly. In 2001, the two countries signed a bilateral trade agreement, allowing Vietnam's exports access to the U.S. market, which helped Vietnam achieve rapid economic growth. American companies also began investing in Vietnam.
A large number of Vietnamese immigrants living in the U.S., along with family members affected by the Vietnam War, played a positive role in rebuilding relations.
Additionally, several former hostile nations have turned into friends by agreeing on various mutual interests. For example, after years of enmity, Croatia and Serbia rebuilt their diplomatic and commercial relations after 2000. They now cooperate on various regional and international issues.
South Sudan gained independence from Sudan in 2011. Initially, relations were good, but later disputes over borders and oil arose between the two countries. However, in recent times, they have been working on improving diplomatic relations through peace talks and various forms of cooperation.
After the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, the Soviet republics became independent states. While political tensions remain in some cases, economic cooperation between Russia and other former Soviet countries, such as Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Armenia, is quite strong. These countries are members of several regional cooperation forums, like the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU), which have helped enhance commercial relations among them.
Eritrea gained independence from Ethiopia in 1993 after a long armed struggle, making the relationship between the two countries quite tense.
In 2018, a peace treaty was signed between the two nations, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their relationship. This treaty has played a role in improving diplomatic and commercial ties, although achieving full stability in their relations is still taking some time.
These examples show that countries with a history of conflict can still develop their relationships peacefully. It is possible to rebuild bilateral relations through diplomatic, economic, cultural, and regional cooperation.
Given the extent of money siphoned off during past fascist regimes, the rate of inflation, rising unemployment and the collapse of almost every state institution and judicial system, economic stability is crucial. To revive the economy, it is essential to establish good relations with all countries, including those in SAARC.
Pakistan also has a vested interest in improving relations with Bangladesh, as both countries face similar challenges. A crucial step towards normalizing ties would be for Pakistan to offer an unconditional apology to Bangladesh and its people for the 1971 genocide. Such a gesture could open the door to a fresh start in relations between the two nations.
In the current context, this represents a significant opportunity for Pakistan. Bangladesh is moving away from India's sphere of influence, and it can no longer tolerate India's aggressive stance. As a result, there is an unofficial "India Out" movement underway in Bangladesh.
Recently, it is noteworthy that despite Bangladesh defeating Pakistan 2-0 in the Test cricket series held in Pakistan, the Pakistani public welcomed Bangladesh warmly. Pakistanis even showed support for Bangladesh by holding up Bangladeshi flags in the stadium. The people of these two countries have embraced each other as brothers.
On the other hand, in India, during the Bangladesh-India T20 World Cup match last year, Indian supporters harassed Bangladeshi fans in various stadiums. Additionally, Indian media have been spreading hostility towards the people of Bangladesh, which is quite noticeable. Just recently, India's Defense Minister warned high-ranking military officials to be prepared for any unforeseen incidents regarding Bangladesh, which essentially threatens our independence and sovereignty.
India has never truly been friends with the people or the state of Bangladesh; instead, it has been friendly with a specific political party in the country that has consistently sacrificed national interests for unjust advantages for India.
In this situation, Bangladesh should establish friendships with as many countries as possible and address any threats to its sovereignty.
In this context, increasing mutual cooperation with Pakistan, China and with other neighbors on specific issues in Asia could be beneficial for Bangladesh. For example:
* Frequent Enhancing diplomatic dialogues * Sharing military assistance and technology * Boosting regional cooperation and international roles * Increasing economic cooperation * Expanding educational, technological, and cultural exchanges * Strengthening Bangladesh's position in global politics and the Islamic world * If relations between Bangladesh and Pakistan improve, Bangladesh's diplomatic ties with the Islamic world could also become stronger * Facilitating visas and public relations * Making tourism easier and more streamlined * Ensuring commitments to regional security and safety
Historically, countries that have faced divisions have managed to restore their relations through various means such as diplomatic discussions, economic cooperation, and collective responses to regional challenges. These examples show that relationship development is possible even after separation if both parties work based on mutual respect and cooperation.
The writer is Photojournalist & Feature writer of the Daily Observer
