Since the interim government, led by Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus, took office in August, relations between Dhaka and Islamabad have been gaining momentum. The diplomatic freeze that persisted under the previous Sheikh Hasina-led government is now thawing rapidly.

Both countries have initiated efforts to enhance cooperation in various sectors, including trade, communication, education, cultural exchanges, and visa facilitation.

Diplomatic tensions under previous government

During the tenure of the Awami League government led by Sheikh Hasina, Dhaka-Islamabad relations deteriorated significantly, primarily due to disputes over the trial of crimes against humanity committed in 1971. Besides, unresolved issues from that period and external geopolitical influences contributed to the strained ties. Allegations were made that India played a significant role in shaping Dhaka’s approach towards Islamabad.

However, since the formation of the interim government, Bangladesh has signaled its intention to normalize relations with Pakistan, aiming for a mutually beneficial partnership.

Bilateral meetings and diplomatic engagements

In September 2024, after assuming office, Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus held a bilateral meeting with Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York. Both leaders agreed to revive diplomatic and economic ties.

The momentum continued in December when the two heads of government met again during the D-8 summit in Egypt, further discussing ways to strengthen bilateral relations.

Increased diplomatic activity from Pakistan

Before August 2024, Pakistan’s diplomatic presence in Bangladesh was relatively subdued. However, following the political shift in Dhaka, Pakistani High Commissioner to Bangladesh Syed Ahmed Maroof has become more active, engaging in regular meetings with advisors of the interim government and participating in various events aimed at fostering closer ties between the two nations.

Visa fee waiver for Bangladeshis

On August 14, 2024, Pakistan waived visa fees for citizens of 126 countries, including Bangladesh. This has made travel between the two countries easier, with Bangladeshis now benefiting from both visa fee exemptions and e-visa facilities.

Resumption of Dhaka-Karachi direct flights

Direct flights between Bangladesh and Pakistan were suspended in 2018. After nearly seven years, preparations are underway to restore air connectivity. Pakistan-based airline ‘Fly Jinnah’ has received approval to operate direct flights between Dhaka and Karachi, with services expected to commence soon.

Counselor (Press) of the Pakistan High Commission in Dhaka, Md. Fasih Ullah Khan, confirmed that efforts are ongoing to launch the flights, which are anticipated to begin by 2025.

Karachi-Chittagong shipping route reopened

For years, direct shipping between Karachi and Chittagong remained suspended, requiring Pakistani goods to be routed through third countries. However, following the interim government’s assumption of office, direct maritime trade between the two nations has resumed. Two cargo ships carrying Pakistani goods have already reached Bangladesh, signaling increased trade potential in the coming months.

Upcoming visit by Pakistan’s foreign minister

Pakistan’s deputy prime minister and foreign minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar is scheduled to visit Dhaka in April 2025. Both governments are working towards making this visit a success, with expectations that it will further deepen bilateral ties.

Statements from Bangladeshi and Pakistani officials

Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Adviser M. Towhid Hossain acknowledged the historical complexities of Dhaka-Islamabad relations but emphasized the importance of pragmatic diplomacy.

“We have 53 years of unresolved issues with Pakistan. However, if we focus solely on past disputes, progress will be difficult. We will work to safeguard our national interests while also treating Pakistan as any other diplomatic partner,” he stated.

He added, “Even as we attempt to improve relations, the history of 1971 remains. While it won’t be resolved overnight, it should always be considered in our negotiations.”

Pakistani High Commissioner Syed Ahmed Maroof echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the need for stronger mutual respect, trust, and cooperation.

He expressed optimism that both countries could work together for regional stability and economic growth. Regarding trade, he highlighted the importance of strengthening economic ties, noting a significant improvement in Bangladesh-Pakistan commercial relations in recent months.

With increasing diplomatic engagements, trade initiatives, and high-level visits, Dhaka-Islamabad relations appear to be entering a new phase of collaboration. As both countries navigate their historical differences, the focus remains on fostering a ‘win-win’ partnership for mutual economic and diplomatic benefit.

BDST: 1252 HRS, FEB 13, 2025
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