Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will visit Bangladesh in April to strengthen diplomatic relations following a recent political transition. This visit aims to resume formal meetings that have not occurred for over a decade and enhance cooperation in trade, cultural exchanges, and support for displaced Rohingyas. Both countries are optimistic about the future of their bilateral relations and have initiated discussions on various collaborative efforts.
In April, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, is scheduled to visit Bangladesh to enhance bilateral relations after the recent political changes in Bangladesh. The diplomatic ties between the two countries have been relatively strained during the tenure of the Awami League-led government, which began in 2009. The previous visit by a Pakistani foreign minister occurred in 2012, highlighting the need for renewed engagement.
The shift in Bangladesh’s political landscape after August 5 last year has prompted further communication between the nations. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan and Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus of Bangladesh commenced discussions via telephone, leading to two further meetings in New York and Egypt, aimed at warming previously cool diplomatic relations.
Preparations for Minister Dar’s visit include plans for reinitiating formal bilateral discussions, such as foreign secretary-level consultations last held in 2010, and a joint economic commission which last convened in 2005. These topics were addressed during a recent meeting between Imran Ahmed Siddiqui, a senior official from Pakistan’s foreign ministry, and Md Jashim Uddin, Bangladesh’s foreign secretary.
Discussions were held on various aspects of the bilateral relationship, particularly cultural cooperation and exchanges. Additionally, issues concerning the facilitation of trade delegates and regional cooperation frameworks, including SAARC and D-8, were explored for mutual benefits.
Increased ease of travel for Pakistani nationals to Bangladesh is also on the agenda, alongside efforts to resume direct shipping and flights between the two countries. A statement released by the Pakistan High Commission in Dhaka underscored that both nations are committed to fortifying their ties, which are rooted in mutual respect and shared values.
Siddiqui further engaged with Bangladeshi officials in commerce and cultural affairs as part of ongoing discussions to facilitate enhanced cooperation between Pakistan and Bangladesh.
The impending visit of Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar to Bangladesh marks a significant step in revitalizing diplomatic relations between the two nations, which have been historically challenged. Following a shift in political leadership in Bangladesh, dialogue is being fostered to enhance cooperation across multiple sectors, indicating a new era of proactive engagement. The resumption of formal bilateral meetings and the easing of travel restrictions further reflect both countries’ commitment to strengthening ties.
Original Source: www.thedailystar.net
