Dhaka, Islamabad move to expand trade
Bangladesh and Pakistan have underscored the need to strengthen economic engagement, with a renewed focus on expanding trade and investment cooperation.
The issue came up during a courtesy call by Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Imran Haider, on the Prime Minister’s Foreign Affairs Adviser, Dr Humayun Kabir, at the Prime Minister’s Office on Wednesday.
During the meeting, the two sides discussed a range of issues of mutual interest, placing particular emphasis on enhancing bilateral relations through increased economic collaboration.
Both parties highlighted the importance of boosting trade volumes, encouraging investment flows and exploring new sectors for cooperation.
Officials familiar with the discussion said there was a shared understanding that economic diplomacy should take centre stage in the next phase of Bangladesh-Pakistan relations.
The two sides agreed that untapped potential remains in bilateral trade, which could be realised through policy support, business-to-business engagement and improved connectivity.
Trade between Bangladesh and Pakistan has remained modest compared to its potential, with a noticeable imbalance.
Bangladesh primarily imports cotton, yarn and other raw materials from Pakistan, while its exports-largely comprising ready-made garments, jute goods and agricultural products-have yet to gain significant traction in the Pakistani market.
In recent years, however, there have been signs of renewed interest in strengthening commercial ties.
Business communities in both countries have called for reducing tariff and non-tariff barriers, streamlining customs procedures and enhancing direct shipping links to facilitate smoother trade flows.
Investment cooperation also featured prominently in the discussions. Bangladesh has been actively seeking foreign direct investment to support its industrial growth and infrastructure development, while Pakistan has shown interest in exploring opportunities in sectors such as textiles, pharmaceuticals and light engineering.
Although economic engagement has been limited historically, both countries now appear keen to shift the focus towards pragmatic cooperation, particularly in trade and investment, where mutual benefits are evident.
Diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and Pakistan have evolved gradually since Bangladesh’s independence in 1971.
While ties were initially marked by historical sensitivities, the two countries have, over time, taken steps to maintain functional diplomatic engagement.
In recent years, there has been a cautious but steady effort to normalise relations, with both sides engaging through diplomatic channels and regional platforms.
High-level contacts, though limited, have contributed to keeping communication open and identifying areas of cooperation.
Observers note that economic engagement offers a relatively less contentious pathway for improving bilateral ties. By focusing on trade, investment and people-to-people contact, Dhaka and Islamabad can build confidence and create a more constructive relationship.
Wednesday’s meeting reflects this broader approach, where both sides are looking to move beyond past constraints and prioritise forward-looking cooperation.
The emphasis on expanding economic ties signals a willingness to explore practical avenues that can deliver tangible benefits.
Both Bangladesh and Pakistan expressed hope that continued dialogue and engagement would help unlock new opportunities, paving the way for a more balanced and mutually beneficial partnership in the years ahead.
