Pakistan and Bangladesh Strengthen Ties Through New Agreements

Pakistan and Bangladesh take a big step forward. They sign important agreements to boost their friendship. This happens after many years of cool relations. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar from Pakistan visits Dhaka. It marks the first such trip in 13 years.

Dar meets top leaders in Bangladesh. He talks with Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and others. They focus on trade, security, and youth programs. Both sides show excitement about working together.

The visit comes after changes in Bangladesh’s government last year. The old government falls, opening doors for better ties with Pakistan. Now, both countries aim to leave past problems behind.

Key MoUs Signed to Boost Pakistan Bangladesh Relations

Leaders from both nations sign six key MoUs. These cover trade, diplomacy, media, education, and culture. One agreement ends visa needs for diplomats and officials. This makes travel easier between the two countries.

Another MoU links the foreign service academies of Pakistan and Bangladesh. They plan to share knowledge and training. Media groups also join hands. The Associated Press of Pakistan and Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha agree to work together.

Think tanks from both sides sign pacts too. They will exchange ideas on important issues. A joint group forms to grow trade. Plus, a cultural program runs from 2025 to 2028. It includes art, music, and festivals.

Ishaq Dar’s Meetings During His Visit to Dhaka

Dar meets Chief Adviser Yunus first. He shares greetings from Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. They discuss ways to grow trade and economy. Youth exchanges get attention too. Dar thanks Bangladesh for their warm welcome.

Next, Dar visits former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. He wishes her good health after her illness. He remembers her trip to Pakistan in 2006. They talk about old ties and future plans.

Dar also sees Jamaat-e-Islami leader Dr. Shafiqur Rahman. The leader recovers from heart surgery. Dar praises his work in politics, education, and helping people. These meetings show Pakistan’s effort to connect with all groups in Bangladesh.

Dar talks with members of the National Citizen Party. This group helps remove the old government. He learns about their role in recent changes. All these talks build trust between the two nations.

Addressing Past Issues in Pakistan Bangladesh Relations

Past events from 1971 still linger. Bangladesh raises concerns about an apology, assets, and stranded people. Foreign Policy Advisor Touhid Hossain says these can’t fix overnight. He notes the problems go back 54 years.

Dar responds calmly. He says the issues settle twice before. First in 1974 through a written agreement. Then, General Musharraf speaks openly during his visit. Dar believes brothers should move on with clean hearts.

He points to Islamic teachings. The Quran and Sunnah guide us to forgive and progress. Dar calls both countries one family. They must work for their people’s good. He sees a bright future ahead.

Touhid agrees to team up. Both sides commit to better outcomes. Dar says no disagreements arise in talks. This positive sign helps push economic and trade ties higher.

New Initiatives for Education and People-to-People Ties

Pakistan launches the “Pakistan-Bangladesh Knowledge Corridor.” It offers 500 scholarships to Bangladeshi students over five years. Many focus on medicine. This helps young people learn and grow.

Training comes for 100 Bangladeshi civil servants. Pakistan raises scholarships under its Technical Assistance Programme from five to 25. These steps strengthen education links.

Cultural exchanges bring people closer. The 2025-2028 program shares traditions and stories. Media pacts spread news and views between nations. All this builds lasting friendships.

The Road Ahead for Stronger Pakistan Bangladesh Relations

Both countries see great potential. Trade can grow with the new joint group. Diplomacy eases through visa changes and academy links. Security talks help the region stay safe.

Dar ends his visit on a high note. He calls the talks excellent. Full agreement on all points cheers everyone. Pakistan and Bangladesh now focus on shared goals.

This reset opens doors for business and travel. People in both nations gain from closer ties. Leaders promise to keep working hard. The future looks promising for Pakistan Bangladesh relations.