Daily Times

The world is changing, and changing at its own pace. One sign of the change is that after Bangladesh’s recent revolution against Hasina Wajid’s authoritarianism, the caretaker set-up in Dacca has shown a strong desire to deepen friendly relations with Islamabad. The Shehbaz government has warmly welcomed this outreach and recognized the profound historical, religious and cultural bonds that link the two countries. The pace of practical steps towards this partnership shows a promising future for both countries as both governments aim to enhance cooperation across various sectors.

A reliable media report says that Pakistan and Bangladesh are prepared to strengthen bilateral ties through trade, defence production and investment agreements. Both countries will further discuss these plans in the upcoming Pakistan-Bangladesh Joint Economic Commission meeting, where specific proposals will be explored. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is currently collaborating with relevant ministries to finalise the meeting’s agenda, underscoring the importance attached to this evolving partnership.

Key areas set for discussion during the moot include bilateral free trade and investment agreements. Enhanced collaboration in textiles and support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are also expected to be on the agenda. Bangladesh has requested the duty-free import of specific products to Pakistan. This step alone can lead to greater economic interdependence and trade diversity.

Also, both sides are in talks to reactivate the Joint Business Council and exchange trade delegations regularly. Memoranda of understanding (MoUs) are also proposed between Pakistan’s Oil and Gas Development Company Limited and Pakistan Petroleum Limited with their Bangladeshi counterparts. These agreements aim to explore and capitalize on opportunities in hydrocarbons, minerals, natural gas, and crude oil, offering significant benefits for both economies.

The alignment of expertise and resources presents a unique opportunity for Pakistan and Bangladesh to collaborate on mutually beneficial projects. Both nations have a wealth of skilled labour and valuable natural resources, which, if harnessed effectively through such partnerships, can drive development and prosperity for their citizens. This cooperative effort could create new pathways for economic growth, development, and long-lasting unity between these two brotherly nations.

In this context, we can hope that both countries can maximise the potential of these initiatives. This is high time both sides embraced this momentous opportunity to advance the welfare of their people. *