New Delhi, November 13, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has questioned the necessity and affordability of Dhaka’s reported deal with China for J-10CE fighter aircraft, calling for greater transparency in defence procurement and a careful assessment of its regional implications.
In an exclusive audio interview with IANS, Hasina said Bangladesh had every right to modernise its armed forces but argued that major military purchases must be guided by genuine defence requirements and the country’s financial capacity.
“Does Bangladesh need the equipment? Can the country afford it? Was the decision taken transparently, and have the wider regional implications been considered?” she asked, referring to the reported fighter jet agreement.
Hasina pointed to Bangladesh’s economic difficulties, saying that any significant defence expenditure should be examined carefully. She also cautioned against decisions that could affect the regional balance.
The former Prime Minister stressed that Bangladesh should maintain balanced relations with major global powers and pursue an independent foreign policy based on its national interests.
Describing India as Bangladesh’s closest neighbour and China as an important defence and development partner, she said Dhaka should also preserve its relationships with the United States, Japan, the Middle East, Gulf countries and African nations.
“We never believed that friendship with one country required hostility towards another,” Hasina said, adding that Bangladesh should not become a battleground for competition among larger powers.
She also expressed concern over what she described as a worsening economic situation in Bangladesh, contrasting current challenges with the growth and development recorded during her tenure.
Recalling poverty reduction, expansion of electricity and healthcare facilities, and infrastructure development under her government, Hasina cited the International Monetary Fund’s projected growth rate of 3.2 per cent for Bangladesh in the current fiscal year.
She further pointed to difficulties in the banking sector and mounting pressure on businesses, saying the country was facing challenges across several areas of public and economic life.
Her remarks come amid questions over Bangladesh’s reported defence procurement plans and the implications of its expanding military engagement with China.
FOLLOW NOW
