Staff Reporter :
Pakistan has expressed a strong interest in revitalising its bilateral relations with Bangladesh through enhanced cooperation in various areas.
This optimism was highlighted during a phone conversation between Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Professor Muhammad Yunus, the Chief Adviser to the Interim Government of Bangladesh, on Friday.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated Professor Yunus on assuming the role of Chief Adviser and praised his contributions to the socio-economic development of Bangladesh.
He also conveyed his sympathies regarding the recent devastating floods in Bangladesh, according to a press release.
During the conversation, Prime Minister Sharif emphasised the importance of revitalising bilateral relations through increased cooperation across different sectors.
He noted the historical, religious, and cultural ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh and expressed a strong desire to boost commercial relations, cultural exchanges, and people-to-people contacts.
Both leaders agreed on the necessity of working closely for the progress and prosperity of their respective nations.
They also recognised that greater regional cooperation could significantly improve the lives of people across South Asia.
Professor Yunus expressed his gratitude for the call and acknowledged Pakistan’s interest in strengthening bilateral relations.
Since the formation of Bangladesh’s interim government, Pakistan has consistently shown a desire to enhance cooperation at both bilateral and multilateral levels.
Recently, Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Syed Ahmed Maroof, also stressed the importance of rejuvenating bilateral ties, particularly focusing on economic and trade relations, supported by people-to-people contacts and cultural exchanges.
During a meeting with Professor Yunus on August 27, the High Commissioner discussed easing visa processes and the resumption of direct flights between Pakistan and Bangladesh.
They also explored various avenues of collaboration, including student exchanges, youth engagement, and business and cultural ties.
In the meeting, Chief Adviser Dr. Yunus shared his vision for bilateral and regional cooperation, particularly emphasising the role of SAARC in connecting the people of South Asia and improving their lives.
He appreciated Pakistan’s interest in fostering closer bilateral relations and expressed his commitment to working towards mutual interests.