Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will visit Bangladesh in February 2024, the first such visit in over a decade, signaling improved ties after the removal of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The interim government’s chief adviser, Muhammad Yunus, will reciprocate by visiting Pakistan. Relations have strengthened with increased trade and lifted visa restrictions for Pakistani citizens.
Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar is scheduled to visit Bangladesh in February 2024, marking the first visit by a Pakistani foreign minister in over ten years. This visit is a reflection of the improving relationship between Dhaka and Islamabad following a significant political shift in Bangladesh. Speaking at a press conference, Minister Dar confirmed that the interim government chief adviser, Muhammad Yunus, will also reciprocate with a planned visit to Pakistan. Under the previous administration led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, relations were strained due to her aligned policies with India and a lack of diplomatic engagement with Pakistan. However, since Hasina’s removal in August 2024, there have been noticeable improvements in bilateral ties, including increased trade and high-level meetings. Recently, Bangladesh has also eliminated visa restrictions for Pakistani citizens, potentially altering regional security dynamics amidst rising extremism concerns.
The diplomatic relationship between Pakistan and Bangladesh has historically been complex, particularly during the lengthy tenure of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, whose government maintained closer ties with India, often sidelining Pakistan. Following her departure in August 2024 due to civil unrest, a new political climate has emerged, enabling the two nations to re-establish dialogue and cooperation. The recent exchange of visits by high-ranking officials signals a renewed commitment to fostering bilateral relations and addressing shared concerns, particularly in trade and regional security. Moreover, the recent policy changes regarding visa applications for Pakistani citizens suggest a willingness to improve connectivity and loosen previous restrictions.
The upcoming visit of Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar to Bangladesh signifies a monumental shift in Pakistan-Bangladesh relations after a decade of strain, primarily under the leadership of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The invitation extended to and acceptance by Muhammad Yunus exemplifies the new interim government’s intent to cultivate improved bilateral ties. Enhanced trade and adjustments to visa protocols are indicative of a potential thawing of relations that could reshape diplomatic and economic dynamics in the region.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
