Defence Minister Attends Bangladesh National Day Reception

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

Asif acknowledged the warm relationship between the people of Pakistan and Bangladesh. He noted that both governments are actively pursuing greater economic, political, and cultural collaboration.

“We value our ties with Bangladesh and aspire to strengthen our cooperation across various sectors,” he stated, while also conveying his best wishes to the government and people of Bangladesh on their Independence and National Day.

The minister commended Bangladesh’s remarkable socio-economic advancements. Emphasizing the deep-rooted historical connections and bilateral relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh, he underscored the importance of further solidifying these relations to boost development cooperation.

He mentioned the shared history and culture of Pakistan and Bangladesh, highlighting them as vital factors in fostering closeness between the two nations.

Bangladesh High Commissioner Muhammad Iqbal Hussain expressed his delight at the large turnout of dignitaries. He had recently returned from Dhaka following a productive visit by Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Ms. Amna Baloch, who spearheaded discussions between Pakistan and Bangladesh, marking the first such consultations in 15 years.

In his address, he conveyed his country’s desire to maintain robust and amicable relations with Pakistan. He also emphasized the importance of increased collaboration and mutual understanding, while highlighting the beauty and welcoming atmosphere of his country.

In addition to the defence minister, numerous federal ministers were present, 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 maintaining strong and friendly ties with Pakistan, highlighting the necessity for strengthened cooperation and mutual understanding.

The reception was attended by members of the diplomatic community, civil society representatives, media personnel, and members of the business sector. The event included cultural performances from Bangladesh, along with traditional cuisine such as Bengali Rasgulla and Becky fish, making it an unforgettable evening.

Muhammad Iqbal Hossain Khan paid tribute to the freedom fighters and participants of the 2024 mass uprising, stressing the importance of realizing the aspirations of both nations through enhanced bilateral relations.

The national anthems of both countries were played, and the chief guest, together with the high commissioner and special guests, participated in a cake-cutting ceremony.