In a significant diplomatic development, Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch has termed her recent meeting with Bangladesh officials as “fruitful”, marking a potential shift in bilateral ties after years of limited engagement.
On Thursday, Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch met with Bangladesh’s Foreign Secretary Md. Jashim Uddin at the State Guest House Padma in Dhaka. The meeting, which began around 10:45 AM, was described as constructive and promising by both sides.
Baloch, who arrived in Dhaka on Wednesday, led her country’s delegation during the bilateral dialogue—the first of its kind since 2010. The two sides discussed various issues including trade expansion, direct flight operations, and unresolved matters from the 1971 Liberation War.
International relations analysts have welcomed the talks, suggesting they could pave the way for enhanced economic cooperation between the two South Asian nations. “Given our drive to revitalize the economy, such dialogues are essential,” said Shahab Enam, a foreign affairs expert.
He also emphasized the importance of addressing historical issues with Pakistan, while exploring trade and export opportunities for Bangladeshi products, which have growing demand in Pakistani markets.
Meanwhile, sources have confirmed that Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar is scheduled to visit Dhaka later this month. If confirmed, it will be the first visit by a Pakistani foreign minister to Bangladesh since 2012.
LND/BG
