In a major diplomatic breakthrough, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar arrived in Dhaka, marking the first visit by a Pakistani foreign minister in 13 years.
The visit, at the invitation of Bangladesh, signals a bold reset in ties between the two South Asian neighbors. Ishaq Dar is scheduled to meet Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus and Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain. The high-level talks will cover trade deals, regional security, and other key issues.
Sources indicate that multiple agreements, including crucial trade pacts, are expected to be signed on Sunday. This engagement represents Pakistan’s most senior-level interaction with Dhaka since 2012.
The visit follows the political upheaval in Bangladesh, including the departure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, which has opened doors for renewed cooperation.
Since then, Pakistan and Bangladesh have resumed high-level consultations after 15 years, launched direct shipping between Karachi and Chittagong, and agreed to grant visa-free entry for holders of diplomatic and official passports.
Defense and security cooperation is also a focus. Recently, Quartermaster General of the Bangladesh Army Lieutenant General Md Faizur Rahman met General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC), in Rawalpindi. The meeting reviewed the regional security situation and reaffirmed commitments to collaboration in defense.
During the visit, Bangladesh officials praised the professionalism of the Pakistan Armed Forces and acknowledged their sacrifices in counter-terrorism operations.
This historic visit by Ishaq Dar highlights Pakistan’s intent to strengthen diplomatic and economic relations with Bangladesh. Analysts say it could pave the way for deeper cooperation in trade, security, and regional stability.
With this engagement, both countries are expected to focus on building trust and exploring new avenues for partnership, signaling a new chapter in Pakistan-Bangladesh relations.
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