Ishaq Dar, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister, will visit Bangladesh in April to strengthen diplomatic ties following the political shift since August 2024. The visit aims to resume formal bilateral meetings and explore cultural and economic cooperation, following 15 years of subdued relations under the Awami League government. Recent meetings point toward a renewed focus on collaboration in trade, tourism, and addressing regional issues.
Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, is scheduled to travel to Bangladesh in April. This visit aims to enhance bilateral relations following the ousting of the Awami League government on August 5, 2024. Previously, relations were limited during the 15 years the Awami League government maintained a pro-India stance, with the last visit by a Pakistani foreign minister occurring in 2012.
The diplomatic engagement is revitalizing after a political change last year, marked by a phone conversation and two meetings between Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Resuming formal bilateral dialogues, including foreign secretary-level consultations and a joint economic commission, precedes the foreign minister’s visit. The last meetings of these committees were in 2010 and 2005, respectively.
Imran Ahmed Siddiqui, Pakistan’s additional secretary for Asia Pacific, recently met with Bangladesh’s Foreign Secretary, Md Jashim Uddin, to discuss upcoming meetings. They explored opportunities for cultural cooperation, including music, drama, youth exchanges, and increasing people-to-people contacts. Siddiqui also delivered a letter from Ishaq Dar to Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain.
Additionally, the importance of recent trade delegation visits from Pakistan to Bangladesh was acknowledged, emphasizing reciprocal visits to foster trade. Discussions also included cooperation in tourism, cultural exchanges, and addressing issues relating to forcibly displaced Rohingyas. Both sides recognize the need for enhanced regional collaboration through organizations like SAARC, OIC, and D-8.
Initiatives include easing visa regulations for Pakistani nationals and resuming direct flights and shipping links. The Pakistan High Commission in Dhaka confirmed improvements in diplomatic relations based on mutual respect and shared values, highlighting an optimistic outlook for future cooperation.
Ishaq Dar’s impending visit in April signifies a notable shift in Pakistan-Bangladesh relations, grounded in recent political changes. The emphasis on bilateral meetings, cultural cooperation, and trade development underscores a commitment to improving ties. As both nations work towards revitalizing their diplomatic relationship, the reestablishment of transport links and eased visa regulations are crucial steps toward deeper collaboration in various sectors.
Original Source: www.thedailystar.net
