Pakistan has extended an offer to Bangladesh to use the Karachi Port, aiming to strengthen trade connectivity with China and Central Asian countries. The move is seen as a major step toward enhancing regional economic cooperation and improving bilateral ties.
The proposal was made during the 9th Pak-Bangladesh Joint Economic Commission (JEC) meeting held in Dhaka — the first in two decades. The session was co-chaired by Pakistan’s Petroleum Minister Ali Pervez and Bangladesh’s Finance Advisor.
According to officials, the meeting marked a significant milestone in Pakistan-Bangladesh relations, reflecting both nations’ intent to renew collaboration after years of limited interaction.
Trade and logistics cooperation
Pakistan’s offer to allow Bangladeshi access to Karachi Port is expected to streamline trade logistics, reducing transportation costs and expanding Dhaka’s export routes. The initiative could also open new commercial opportunities for Bangladesh with China, Central Asia, and the Middle East.
Both countries also emphasized the need to enhance cooperation between their national shipping corporations to facilitate smoother maritime trade.
Expanding ties across key sectors
The JEC meeting discussed collaboration in several vital sectors, including:
- Investment and industrial development
- Medical and religious tourism
- Information technology and communication
- Energy and climate change initiatives
Officials also agreed to explore the launch of direct flights between Pakistan and Bangladesh to strengthen business and cultural connections.
Halal certification and education initiatives
A memorandum of cooperation was signed between the Pakistan Halal Food Authority and the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institute to promote halal certification and quality assurance. This partnership aims to help both countries benefit from the rapidly growing global halal market.
Additionally, Pakistan proposed the creation of a Pak-Bangladesh Knowledge Corridor, offering 500 fully funded scholarships for Bangladeshi students to study in Pakistan. The training seats under the Pakistan Technical Assistance Program will also increase from five to twenty-five.
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Officials reaffirmed their commitment to work closely in education, health, tourism, textiles, and agriculture, signaling a new chapter in bilateral relations anchored by the Karachi Port initiative.
