Pakistan and Bangladesh Aim to Boost Economic Collaboration

Pakistan, Bangladesh boost ties as Ishaq Dar plans April visit to explore tourism, trade, and investment opportunities. [Image via The Express Tribune]

KARACHI: In a significant move to deepen bilateral relations, Pakistan and Bangladesh are working closely to strengthen cooperation for the mutual benefit of their peoples. Taking a step forward in this direction, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar is scheduled to visit Bangladesh in the last week of April 2025. The visit is expected to explore new avenues of collaboration, particularly in the fields of tourism and investment, where ample opportunities await Pakistan in Bangladesh’s growing market.

The Deputy High Commissioner, S M Mahbubul Alam, said there is ample scope for widening and strengthening mutually beneficial bilateral relations between the two countries while addressing a reception arranged by the Bangladesh Mission to celebrate the 54th anniversary of the Independence and National Day of Bangladesh. The National Day celebration commenced with a grand ceremony, beginning with the national anthems of both countries.

Minister of Sindh government Saeed Ghani was the guest of honour. Bangladesh High Commissioner in Pakistan Iqbal Husain Khan, Consuls General of different countries in Karachi, other diplomats, senators, members of national and provincial assemblies, political leadership, government officials of Pakistan and Sindh Province, business leaders, cultural activists, women entrepreneurs, media personalities and journalists attended the celebration.

He added that Bangladesh and Pakistan have maintained excellent bilateral relationships. Chief Advisor of Bangladesh Dr Muhammad Yunus and the Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif held several meetings over the past months. They met in September 2024 on the sidelines of the 79th UNGA in New York and again in December 2024 during the D-8 Summit in Cairo. The meetings highlighted the desire to enhance cooperation, especially in economic development, trade, investment, cultural exchange, and people-to-people ties.

Also See: Jinnah’s Legacy Honored in Dhaka: Bangladesh Remembers Pakistan’s Founder

On April 17, 2025, the 6th Round of Foreign Secretary-Level Consultations took place in Dhaka. Foreign Secretary of Bangladesh Ambassador Jashim Uddin and Foreign Secretary of Pakistan Ambassador Amna Baloch led the respective delegations and discussed all aspects of bilateral relations.

The deputy high commissioner highlighted increased trade activity, including a direct container ship link operational since November 2024 and upcoming direct flights. Delegations from FPCCI, TDAP, TCP, and cultural troupes have visited Bangladesh. Key Bangladeshi exports include jute, garments, leather goods, ceramics, and pharmaceuticals. Pakistan also participated in the Bangladesh Investment Summit in April 2025.

He underscored Bangladesh’s tourism appeal, including Cox’s Bazar and the Sundarbans, and its strong remittance and export economy. Alam invited more business delegations and tourists from Pakistan to Bangladesh and assured extending all possible support to facilitate visits, including coordinating and processing visas on priority basis.

This news is sourced from The Express Tribune and is intended for informational purposes only.

News Desk

Your trusted source for insightful journalism. Stay informed with our compelling coverage of global affairs, business, technology, and more.

Recent

What is the Durand Line?

What is Durand Line?

The Durand Line, a 2,670-kilometer border drawn in 1893 between Afghanistan and British India, remains one of South Asia’s many contentious frontiers. Rejected by every Afghan government but recognized internationally, it symbolizes the region’s colonial legacy and ongoing power struggles. This backgrounder explores its origins in the Great Game, the legal and political controversies surrounding it, and its lasting impact on Pakistan-Afghanistan relations and regional security.

Read More »
Can war against terror be won without political consensus?

Can war against terror be won without political consensus?

For over two decades, Pakistan has battled the scourge of terrorism. Yet, despite military successes, the absence of political consensus continues to jeopardize lasting peace. As divisions deepen and populist narratives gain ground, the question remains: can Pakistan truly defeat terror without unity at the top?

Read More »
Shifting Sands: How Multipolar Pragmatism Is Redefining Global Alliances

Shifting Sands: How Multipolar Pragmatism Is Redefining Global Alliances

The world is entering an era of multipolar pragmatism where ideology no longer defines alliances. From NATO’s internal divides to BRICS expansion and regional realignments, states now pursue transactional partnerships driven by national interests. This fluid diplomacy creates both opportunities for middle powers and uncertainty in global governance.

Read More »
Afghan Taliban and Cross Border Terrorism in Pakistan

Afghan Taliban and Cross Border Terrorism in Pakistan

Pakistan is witnessing a sharp rise in terrorist attacks linked to the Afghan Taliban’s support for the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). A new study reveals that Afghan nationals now dominate TTP infiltration groups, exposing Kabul’s complicity in cross-border militancy. As violence escalates, Islamabad must balance border control, diplomacy, and de-radicalisation to counter

Read More »
The New Normal: End of Pakistan’s Strategic Restraint

The New Normal: End of Pakistan’s Strategic Restraint

Any hope surrounding the Pakistan–Afghanistan dialogue in Doha is colliding with renewed violence and mutual distrust. Pakistan’s recent precision strikes in Paktika, following a shattered ceasefire and terrorist attacks, signal a shift toward active defense. The talks now hinge on whether Kabul can curb militant sanctuaries and move beyond its victim narrative.

Read More »