Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will visit Bangladesh in April to improve bilateral relations following a period of diplomatic strain under the previous Awami League government. The two nations aim to resume formal meetings, discuss cultural cooperation, and enhance trade through upcoming exchanges and eased travel restrictions.
In April, Ishaq Dar, the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan, will visit Bangladesh to enhance bilateral relations which have been strained due to the previous Awami League government’s policies. The last high-level diplomatic engagement occurred in 2012, leading to a significant gap in ministerial visits. Former Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s virtual presence at the D-8 conference in 2022 further exemplifies the rarity of face-to-face interactions in recent years.
Following a political transition in August, communication between the leaders of both nations was reinitiated, marked by phone calls and meetings in New York and Egypt. As diplomatic thawing continues, plans to resume formal bilateral meetings such as foreign secretary-level consultations and a joint economic commission, which have not convened in years, are underway.
Imran Ahmed Siddiqui of Pakistan’s foreign ministry engaged with Md Jashim Uddin of Bangladesh to discuss the importance of these upcoming meetings associated with the minister’s visit. Additionally, cultural cooperation initiatives, including exchanges in music and drama, were explored, emphasizing the potential for greater people-to-people contact.
Siddiqui delivered a letter from Ishaq Dar to Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain, indicating heightened diplomatic engagement. The discussions also touched on recent trade delegations and the significance of fostering bilateral trade relations, which previously saw a decline.
Cooperation areas identified include tourism, cultural exchanges, and addressing the plight of displaced Rohingyas. The meeting acknowledged the necessity for reinforcing collective regional efforts through organizations such as SAARC and D-8. Furthermore, logistical improvements, such as eased visa processes and the revival of direct transport routes, were noted.
In their joint review, the Pakistan High Commission and Bangladeshi officials recognized the progression in mutual relations, reinforcing their commitment to shared values and continuing development of collaborative efforts moving forward. Siddiqui also conferred with additional key Bangladeshi officials on a range of strategic cooperation matters.
Ishaq Dar’s upcoming visit to Bangladesh marks a significant effort to rebuild and strengthen diplomatic ties after years of estrangement. The emphasis on cultural and economic exchanges, alongside strategic discussions on pressing regional issues, underscores a mutual desire for cooperation. Through enhanced dialogue and planned engagements, both nations aim to establish a more robust and fruitful partnership, reflecting shared values and goals for the future.
Original Source: www.thedailystar.net
