Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister's meeting with CA Yunus accentuates the need for resurging SAARC cooperation, as urged by the latter.
In a significant development, Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Mohammad Ishaq Dar, met with Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus in Dhaka, Bangladesh on August 24. This marks the first visit by a Pakistani foreign minister to Bangladesh in 13 years.
The high-level meeting, attended by the Chief Adviser's Special Envoy for International Affairs Lutfey Siddiqi, focused on strengthening bilateral ties, boosting trade, and increasing youth-to-youth, education, and cultural exchanges.
Professor Yunus emphasized several areas of collaboration, including frequent cultural exchanges. He highlighted the appreciation of Pakistani singers in Bangladesh and expressed the desire to build upon this spirit. Deputy Prime Minister Dar, on the other hand, underscored opportunities for collaboration and expanding trade ties, stating that the two economies are complementary and there are many areas for cooperation.
Both leaders expressed optimism about enhanced trade, deepening cultural exchange, and regional cooperation. They believe that a more stable and prosperous South Asia can be achieved through these means. The discussion also included the revitalization of regional cooperation through SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation).
Efforts are underway to improve connectivity between Pakistan and Bangladesh, including shipping and air travel. The PIA is expected to launch direct flights to Dhaka once the airline is privatized, and Fly Jinnah is expected to launch direct flights between Pakistan and Bangladesh by October.
The leaders also discussed the recent developments in the region and the prospects of regional cooperation. They emphasized the role of people-to-people connections, particularly among youth. The meeting concluded with Ishaq Dar conveying greetings from Pakistan's Prime Minister, Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, and the chief adviser reciprocating.
Deputy Prime Minister Dar expressed gratitude for the excellent arrangements and warm hospitality during the visit. The chief adviser also emphasized the importance of revitalizing all potential avenues of regional and bilateral cooperation. This meeting marks a significant step forward in strengthening the relationship between Pakistan and Bangladesh and fostering regional cooperation.
