Pakistan says foreign secretary-level talks with Bangladesh signal commitment to revive ties

Pakistan and Bangladesh have reaffirmed their mutual commitment to reviving and strengthening bilateral ties during the sixth Foreign Secretary-level meeting, held in Dhaka on Thursday after a 15-year pause, according to a press release issued by Pakistan's Foreign Ministry on Friday.

The meeting was conducted in a cordial atmosphere, with Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch and Bangladesh’s Foreign Secretary Md. Jasim Uddin leading their respective delegations.

A key highlight of the talks was the focus on enhancing regional connectivity. Both sides welcomed the resumption of direct shipping services between Karachi and Chattogram and emphasized the importance of restoring direct air connectivity. They also expressed satisfaction over the progress made in facilitating travel and easing visa processes.

The two countries engaged in in-depth discussions on a wide range of topics, including political, economic, cultural, educational, and strategic cooperation. They highlighted the importance of their shared history, cultural connections, and the aspirations of their people. The delegations also reviewed recent high-level interactions held in New York, Cairo, Samoa, and Jeddah, acknowledging their role in revitalizing diplomatic engagement.

The meeting stressed the urgency of finalizing pending bilateral agreements and promoting regular institutional dialogue. Both sides agreed to work toward increasing cooperation in trade, agriculture, education, and infrastructure.

Pakistan offered educational opportunities at its agricultural universities, while Bangladesh proposed technical training in fisheries and maritime affairs. Additionally, Bangladesh acknowledged Pakistan’s offer of scholarships at private universities and called for further collaboration in the education sector.

The two countries also discussed several proposed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at fostering cooperation in sports, media, and culture. Both sides underscored the importance of people-to-people exchanges and cultural diplomacy.

A significant outcome of the meeting was a joint agreement to revive activities under the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), with both sides stressing the need for regional unity and cooperation.

Pakistan reiterated its call for a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir dispute in accordance with United Nations resolutions. The two countries also jointly condemned the ongoing Israeli aggression in Gaza and voiced concern over the grave human rights violations occurring there.