Pakistan Celebrates Bangladesh National Day

Islamabad: At a reception commemorating the 54th National and Independence Day of Bangladesh, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif served as the chief guest. The event was hosted by Bangladesh High Commissioner Muhammad Iqbal Hussain Khan and his wife, Roushan Naheed.

Asif acknowledged the warm relationship between the citizens of Pakistan and Bangladesh, noting that both governments are actively pursuing increased economic, political, and cultural collaboration.

“We appreciate our connections with Bangladesh and anticipate strengthening our cooperation across various sectors,” he stated, conveying his best wishes to the Bangladeshi government and its people on their Independence and National Day.

The minister commended Bangladesh’s notable advancements in the socio-economic sphere. Underscoring the long-standing historical ties and bilateral relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh, he stressed the importance of further strengthening these bonds to promote greater development cooperation between the two nations.

He emphasized the historical and cultural connections linking Pakistan and Bangladesh, highlighting them as a crucial element in fostering closeness between the two friendly countries.

Bangladesh High Commissioner Muhammad Iqbal Hussain, hosting his inaugural National Day reception, expressed satisfaction with the significant attendance of dignitaries. He had recently returned from Dhaka following a productive visit by Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Ms. Amna Baloch, who led discussions between Pakistan and Bangladesh, marking the first such consultations in 15 years.

In his remarks, he conveyed his country’s aspiration to maintain robust and amicable relations with Pakistan. He drew attention to the charm and welcoming atmosphere of Bangladesh, advocating for enhanced collaboration and mutual understanding.

In addition to the defence minister, the gathering was attended by federal ministers including Professor Ahsan Iqbal Chaudhary, Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhary, Moeen Wattoo, Ham Kamal, Khel Das Kohistani, Malik Rasheed Ahmad, Qaiser Ahmad Sheikh, and Muhammad Junaid Anwar.

The high commissioner reiterated Bangladesh’s commitment to preserving strong, friendly ties with Pakistan, underscoring the necessity for greater cooperation and mutual comprehension.

The event saw participation from diplomatic personnel, members of civil society, media representatives, and the business community. It also featured Bangladeshi cultural elements, such as traditional cuisine like Bengali Rasgulla and Becky fish, rendering it a memorable occasion.

Muhammad Iqbal Hossain Khan paid homage to the freedom fighters and participants of the 2024 mass uprising. He emphasized the importance of realizing the ambitions of both nations by reinforcing bilateral relations.

The national anthems of both countries were played, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony involving the chief guest, the high commissioner, and other distinguished guests.