Understanding the Nature of Bilateral Relations between Bangladesh and India Critical Review of Intermediate Regime (2006-2008)

Abstract

Many of the domestic political inputs specially the changes in the government, distinguished ideology of political parties and military governments, natural disaster etc. play a very significant role in influencing the foreign policy formulation process. In line with this realist neoclassical perspective this article has examined the foreign relations of Bangladesh with India and argues that the domestic politics in Bangladesh create enough spaces for ups and downs within that relationship. The Caretaker Government (CTG), a unique form of government put forward especially by the Awami League entered into the helms of the affairs of the state thrice in this country and finally backed directly by army, ruled this country during the period from 2006 to 2008 Mapping of foreign relations between India and Bangladesh of this particular period is the main focus of this study. The study follows an analytical and historical approach in the methodology. Both primary and secondary data and information were used: primary data through KII (Key Informant Interview) and secondary data and information through documentary review and content analysis. The study reveals that the aforesaid CTG took several policy decisions bearing national importance including those of great security concerns, signed huge number of international treaties and contracts and made 90 laws touching upon vital areas of governance outside the mandate of the Constitution obligating the future governments. The most remarkable success the CTG could achieve in establishing a very cordial relationship with India. As a whole a relation synergy was developed with India during this period because both the countries- Bangladesh and India were able to reap diplomatic, economic and strategic benefits out of this cordial relationship.