The Osmani Centre for Peace and Security Studies (OCPASS) organised an International Roundtable on “Geostrategic Shifts and Energy Security in South Asia and the Middle East: Trust, Confidence and Options for Import-Dependent States” on 3 October 2026 at the Army Golf Club Conference Room, Dhaka.

The discussion examined how geopolitical realignments, disruptions around critical energy chokepoints, supply-chain vulnerabilities and changing Gulf-Asian partnerships are reshaping the energy security environment of South Asia. Particular attention was given to the experience of 2026, when disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz and regional LNG infrastructure exposed the vulnerabilities of import-dependent economies.

1.               In session 1, Prof. Dr Rashed Uz Zaman from the University of Dhaka talked about ‘Realignment and the new energy geography.’

2.               In session 2, Prof. Dr Sakib bin Amin from North South University spoke on ‘Transmission, exposure and resilience‘

3.               In session 3, Prof. Dr Shahab Enam Khan from Jahangirnagar University addressed the issue of Collective standing and policy options.

Three sessions explored new energy geographies and regional realignment; transmission, exposure and resilience; and collective standing and policy options.

The roundtable highlighted the need for Bangladesh and other import-dependent states to integrate energy, diplomacy and national security planning, while pursuing diversified supply, stronger contractual confidence, strategic reserves, regional cooperation and more resilient partnerships with energy suppliers. The discussions will contribute to policy inputs for the forthcoming National Security Review.

Key takeaways

·  Energy security is increasingly a national security issue.

·  Shared vulnerabilities require issue-specific and minilateral cooperation.

·  Bangladesh needs greater supply diversification and strategic energy reserves.

·  Regional cooperation should strengthen energy corridors, emergency mechanisms and power trade.

·  Bangladesh should move from an energy buyer to a strategic energy partner.