Pakistan and Bangladesh Enhance Connectivity and Cooperation

Islamabad: Acknowledging the importance of connectivity, Pakistan and Bangladesh have lauded the commencement of direct shipping operations between Karachi and Chittagong. Both nations have also emphasized the necessity of re-establishing direct air transportation links.

This development transpired during the 6th round of Foreign Secretary Level Consultations (FSLC) held in Dhaka on April 17. Both parties conveyed their contentment with the advancements achieved in simplifying travel and visa procedures, according to a statement issued by the Foreign Office.

The discussions, which resumed after a 15-year interval, were spearheaded by Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch and Bangladesh’s Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin. The atmosphere was cordial, demonstrating a mutual dedication to reinvigorating bilateral relations, the statement noted.

The delegations engaged in thorough discussions regarding political, economic, cultural, educational, and strategic collaboration, founded on shared historical experiences, cultural resemblances, and the collective goals of their populations.

They voiced satisfaction with recent high-ranking interactions in global forums like New York, Cairo, Samoa, and Jeddah, which have contributed to revitalizing the bilateral connection.

Both sides underscored the significance of sustaining this impetus through consistent institutional dialogue, swift finalization of pending agreements, and amplified collaboration in commerce, agriculture, education, and connectivity.

Pakistan extended offers for academic placements in its agricultural institutions, while Bangladesh proposed technical instruction in fisheries and maritime disciplines. The Bangladeshi delegation also recognized scholarship opportunities from private universities in Pakistan and emphasized the requirement for enhanced cooperation within the educational sphere.

The Bangladeshi representatives commended recent performances by prominent Pakistani artists in Dhaka, and the Pakistani side advocated for reciprocal cultural interactions. Prospects for wider collaboration in sports, media, and cultural institutions were examined, including the conclusion of various Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) in these sectors.

Regarding multilateral matters, both parties reiterated the necessity of revitalizing the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) in accordance with its foundational tenets. The Foreign Secretary valued the vision of the Bangladeshi leadership and expressed optimism that the SAARC process would remain separate from bilateral political considerations.

The Foreign Secretary also provided the Bangladeshi side with information on the situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), highlighting the need for an expeditious resolution of the dispute that aligns with UN Security Council resolutions and the desires of the Kashmiri populace.

In reviewing the circumstances in the Middle East, both nations firmly denounced the persistent Israeli hostility and serious human rights abuses in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, particularly in Gaza.

The Foreign Secretary conducted separate meetings with Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and Advisor on Foreign Affairs Touhid Hossain. Discussions centered on regional integration, economic associations, and the significance of safeguarding bilateral relations from external influences. A joint dedication to a forward-thinking alliance was established.

Hossain expressed anticipation for the upcoming visit of Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, expected at the close of April.

While expressing gratitude to Yunus for his gracious welcome, Amna conveyed well wishes from the leadership of Pakistan. The subsequent round of Consultations is scheduled to occur in Islamabad in 2026.