Ishaq Dar, Pakistan’s Deputy PM and FM, is set to visit Bangladesh in April 2025 to improve ties following the Awami League’s exit from power. Diplomatic relations weakened over 15 years, with significant engagement limited. The two countries will resume formal meetings to enhance bilateral cooperation and cultural exchanges, having discussed trade visits and visa facilitation.
Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will visit Bangladesh in April 2025 to enhance bilateral relations after the Awami League government’s fall. The relationship soured over the 15 years of the AL administration, with the last visit by a Pakistani foreign minister occurring in 2012. While Bilawal Bhutto Zardari attended a conference virtually in 2022, actual diplomatic engagements have been scarce.
Following the political transition in August, significant dialogues have occurred, including phone conversations and meetings between Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The aim is to improve diplomatic ties that had become strained over the years. Plans now include resuming formal bilateral talks, which last took place in 2010, and re-establishing a Joint Economic Commission that had not convened since 2005.
Discussions about the upcoming ministerial visit were held by Imran Ahmed Siddiqui, Pakistan’s additional secretary for Asia Pacific, with Bangladesh’s Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin. Emphasis was placed on the need for cultural cooperation, including music, cinema, and youth exchanges. Siddiqui delivered a letter from Dar to Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain during this meeting.
The meeting also highlighted satisfaction regarding recent trade delegations from Pakistan to Bangladesh and the need for reciprocal visits from Bangladesh to Pakistan. Topics such as tourism, cultural exchanges, and regional cooperation through organizations like SAARC and OIC were discussed. Additionally, the upcoming easing of Bangladeshi visas for Pakistani citizens was noted, alongside plans to resume direct flights and shipping.
A statement from the Pakistan High Commission in Dhaka affirmed that both nations prioritize mutual respect, positive relations, and ongoing engagement to enhance cooperation across various sectors.
In conclusion, Ishaq Dar’s visit to Bangladesh in April marks a crucial step in revitalizing diplomatic relations after a prolonged period of tension. Discussions have focused on various areas for collaboration, including cultural ties and economic cooperation, with optimistic movements towards regular engagements. The easing of visa processes and plans for direct transport services reflect a commitment to strengthening bilateral relations further.
Original Source: www.thedailystar.net
