Bangladesh Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus urged Pakistan’s PM Shehbaz Sharif to resolve longstanding issues from the 1971 conflict during a meeting at the D-8 Summit in Cairo. The leaders discussed improving bilateral relations through trade, cultural exchanges, and a revival of SAARC. Sharif expressed readiness to examine further outstanding issues, signaling a willingness to advance cooperation between the two nations.
During a recent meeting at the D-8 Summit in Cairo, Muhammad Yunus, the Chief Advisor of Bangladesh, urged Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to resolve outstanding issues from the 1971 conflict. Yunus emphasized the importance of settling these matters to foster a healthier relationship between Dhaka and Islamabad for the benefit of future generations. The discussions also included plans to enhance trade, cultural exchanges, and the revival of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).
Yunus reiterated the necessity of overcoming historical grievances, stating that “the issues have kept coming again and again. Let’s settle those issues for us to move forward.” Prime Minister Sharif referenced the 1974 tripartite agreement involving Bangladesh, Pakistan, and India as a touchstone for resolutions, expressing a willingness to revisit any outstanding matters that may remain. Sharif remarked, “We are really looking forward to strengthening our relationship with our brother-in-country Bangladesh,” underlining the potential for improved ties.
The meeting also highlighted recent advancements in bilateral trade, including the inaugural direct cargo vessel from Karachi to Chittagong, as well as plans to restore direct flights between the two countries. Yunus commended these developments and called for a strategic partnership that would not only reinforce economic relations but also facilitate cultural and sports exchanges.
This meeting comes against the backdrop of a historical conflict that resulted in significant ramifications for Bangladesh and Pakistan. The 1971 Liberation War led to the independence of Bangladesh from Pakistan, and since then, unresolved issues have remained a point of contention between the two nations. The 1974 tripartite agreement aimed to address some of these matters, but leaders like Yunus believe ongoing dialogue is crucial to moving forward. The discussions at the D-8 Summit also reflect broader aspirations for enhancing regional cooperation in South Asia.
In conclusion, the meeting between Yunus and Sharif represents a critical step towards mending relations between Bangladesh and Pakistan. By addressing the historical grievances from 1971 and discussing trade and cultural cooperation, both countries are poised to strengthen their bilateral ties and build a more promising future. The commitment to revisit outstanding issues signifies a potential shift towards reconciliation and partnership in the region.
Original Source: www.republicworld.com
