International Relations and Security Studies

Bangladesh-India bilateral relations is perhaps amongst the most important and sensitive elements in the foreign policy of both the countries. It has been influenced by common history, traditions, cultural affinity, as it is the closest neighbour of Bangladesh sharing a border of more than 4000kms, and most importantly, for India's role in Bangladesh's War of Liberation in 1971. The relations between the neighbours have seen many a ups and downs.

This book is an effort to deal with various aspects of US-Bangladesh relations. It examines the US attitude towards struggle for liberation of Bangladesh, and the delay caused by the United States in granting recognition on the pretext that Bangladesh was not yet sovereign because of presence of Indian troops in Bangladesh. The first bilateral agreement was signed between the United States and Bangladesh in May 1972 followed by establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Small States and Regional Stability in South Asia is a study of the status and role of small states in international affairs, particularly in the region. The book highlights the constraints and potentials of small states in contributing to regional peace, security, stability, and development. It presents the perspectives of the small states on the issues of nuclearisation in South Asia, globalisation and economic security, the global war on terrorism, common solutions to common problems, and democracy as a conflict management mechanism.

The third Bangladesh-India dialogue for young leaders reaffirmed the belief that good relations between the neighbours would play a pivotal role in working for a stable and constructive environment in South Asia. The discussion sessions organised by Bangladesh Enterprise Institute (BEI) in January 2006 brought together Journalists, Academics and Members of Parliament from across the political spectrum from both the countries. This volume presents seven thematic papers, each indicative both of current problems and future opportunities between the two countries.