Published on, Aug. 17 -- August 17, 2025 1:34 AM

A recent diplomatic development between Pakistan and Bangladesh - the agreement to allow visa-free entry for diplomatic and official passport holders, alongside enhanced cooperation in internal security and police training - reflects the evolving regional balance of power in South Asia. This signals the gradual erosion of India's traditional regional dominance, increasingly challenged by China's assertive economic and strategic engagement with its neighbours.

In recent years, the foreign policy priorities of Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, and the Maldives have begun tilting toward Beijing. Under its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), China has invested heavily in mega-infrastructure projects ...