Pakistan has taken various steps to renew its strained relationship with Bangladesh. As part of this effort, Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch has visited Dhaka, and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will arrive on April 27.
However, ahead of the Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar’s visit experts are cautiously observing the current status of Bangladesh-Pakistan ties.
Earlier, during Foreign Secretary-level talks on April 17, Foreign Secretary Md. Jashim Uddin has demanded a formal apology for the 1971 genocide, and returning of pre-independence assets worth $4.2 billion.
To that demand Pakistan government said they will continue to hold talks with Bangladesh.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s former senator and retired Lt Gen Abdul Qayyum have underscored the need for enhanced economic cooperation, parliamentary ties, and tourism promotion to strengthen relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh.
In an exclusive interview with Banglanews24, the senior Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader underscored key initiatives expected from Bangladesh to foster mutual trust and deepen bilateral cooperation.
Qayyum said that Bangladesh, with its world’s largest sandy beach, archaeological sites, historic mosques, mountains, hill forests, and wildlife, has significant tourism potential. Similarly, Pakistan offers attractions such as eight of the world’s fourteen highest mountains, including K2, the remnants of the Indus Valley Civilization, scenic northern areas, Kashmir, the Sindh desert, and an extensive 1,100 km coastline, making both countries appealing for investors and tourists.
Regarding regional cooperation, Qayyum stressed that Bangladesh has never been Pakistan’s adversary, though he claimed that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s stance had been influenced by India.
He expressed hope for everlasting ties between the two nations and emphasized the potential of SAARC and other regional platforms in fostering stronger relations for mutual benefit.
Identifying key sectors for economic collaboration, Qayyum said that Pakistan could import ready-made garments, jute and its products, fish, shrimp, agro products, pharmaceuticals, and plastic goods from Bangladesh.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh could benefit from imports of Pakistani rice, house linens, textiles, healthcare items, gems, steel, and cement.
On improving Pakistan’s image and fostering mutual understanding, Qayyum suggested increased cultural and media exchanges.
He proposed the exchange of cultural programs, print and television content in English, mutual talk shows, and documentary sharing between the two countries.
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BDST: 2107 HRS, April 20, 2025
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