Pakistan and Bangladesh Reach Visa-Free Entry Agreement

In a significant diplomatic development, Pakistan and Bangladesh have reached a preliminary agreement to permit visa-free entry for individuals holding diplomatic and official passports.

This accord was formalized during a prominent assembly in Dhaka between Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Bangladesh’s Home Minister, Lieutenant General (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury.

Minister Naqvi, currently on a formal visit to Bangladesh, was welcomed by his counterpart at the Ministry of Home Affairs. A ceremonial guard of honor was presented prior to the commencement of bilateral discussions.

Key Discussion Points

During the meeting, the ministers engaged in extensive discussions on various bilateral matters and subjects of common concern, with particular emphasis on reinforcing collaboration in areas of internal security and law enforcement.

Both parties conveyed a strong intention to enhance cooperation in vital sectors, including counter-terrorism efforts, the suppression of drug trafficking, and the prevention of human smuggling.

A notable result of the meeting was the mutual agreement to facilitate visa-free travel for officials and diplomats, a measure expected to reduce bureaucratic obstacles and promote enhanced bilateral interaction.

The ministers also explored the potential for exchanging training programs between police academies, with the objective of enhancing professional capabilities and technical proficiency.

The Bangladeshi minister expressed gratitude to Naqvi for providing support in police training and characterized the visit as a significant advancement in the relationship between the two nations.

Statements from Officials

“I extend a warm welcome to my brother upon his arrival in Dhaka. Your visit holds immense importance for strengthening Pakistan-Bangladesh relations,” stated the Bangladeshi minister.

Follow-Up and Future Collaboration

To ensure the effective implementation of the decisions made during the meeting, both nations have decided to establish a joint committee. Pakistan’s Federal Interior Secretary Khurram Agha will spearhead Pakistan’s involvement in this collaborative endeavor. The committee will be responsible for overseeing the execution of the agreed-upon initiatives and identifying additional opportunities for cooperation.

As a component of this expanding partnership, a distinguished delegation from Bangladesh is scheduled to visit Islamabad in the near future to assess Pakistan’s Safe City Project and tour the National Police Academy.

The meeting, which included high-ranking government representatives and diplomats from both countries, signifies a fresh phase in the pursuit of fostering trust and cooperation between Islamabad and Dhaka. It underscores a shared dedication to regional security, institutional advancement, and diplomatic cooperation.

Earlier in April, Pakistan and Bangladesh lauded the commencement of direct shipping operations between Karachi and Chittagong, highlighting the necessity to reinstate direct air connectivity.

This development transpired during the 6th round of Foreign Secretary Level Consultations (FSLC) held in Dhaka on April 17. Both nations also conveyed satisfaction with the advancements achieved in simplifying travel and visa procedures.

The discussions, which resumed after a 15-year hiatus, were jointly led by Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch and Bangladesh’s Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin. They were conducted in an amicable environment, showcasing a mutual commitment to reinvigorating bilateral relations, as indicated in the official statement.