Ishaq Dar, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister, will visit Bangladesh in April to enhance bilateral relations after the Awami League government change. Recent discussions between officials signal efforts to resume key diplomatic meetings, cultural cooperation, and economic exchanges to mend the subdued relationship between the two countries.
Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar is scheduled to visit Bangladesh in April 2025, aiming to improve bilateral relations following the ousting of the Awami League-led government on August 5, 2024. The diplomatic ties have suffered during the 15 years under the AL government, which was aligned with India, hindering high-level visits.
The last visit by a Pakistani foreign minister to Bangladesh occurred in 2012, led by Hina Rabbani Khar. Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Pakistan’s foreign minister in 2022, participated in the D-8 ministerial conference virtually, highlighting the reduced diplomatic interactions. Recently, following the political shift, engagements have resumed with phone conversations and meetings between Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus.
Plans are in place to resume formal consultations on bilateral matters, including the foreign secretary-level discussions held last in 2010 and the joint economic commission last convened in 2005. Discussions between Imran Ahmed Siddiqui, Pakistan’s additional secretary for Asia-Pacific, and Bangladesh’s Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin have underscored the need for these meetings.
In summary, Pakistan’s effort to strengthen ties with Bangladesh through the upcoming visit of Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar indicates a significant shift in diplomatic relations post-August 2024 political changes. The two nations are set to restore formal consultations and engage in cultural and economic cooperation, aiming for a healthier bilateral relationship moving forward.
Original Source: www.thedailystar.net
