Dhaka is preparing to raise critical issues related to the 1971 Liberation War during the upcoming visit of Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on August 23, 2025, according to Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain. Speaking to journalists at the Foreign Service Academy on Monday (August 4), Hossain stated that Bangladesh is approaching its relationship with Pakistan pragmatically, ensuring that all matters, including a formal public apology and compensation for the 1971 atrocities, will be discussed openly.
When asked whether Bangladesh would demand a public apology and financial reparations from Pakistan, Hossain responded, “All issues will be on the discussion table.” He underscored that the interim government is committed to resolving these longstanding issues during Dar’s visit, marking a significant step in bilateral talks after a 15-year hiatus between Dhaka and Islamabad.
During foreign secretary-level discussions in Dhaka on April 17, 2025, Bangladesh highlighted unresolved historical matters, including a formal apology for the brutalities committed by Pakistani forces during the 1971 Liberation War and demands for financial compensation. Former Foreign Secretary Md. Jashim Uddin emphasized that addressing these issues is crucial for fostering a robust foundation for bilateral relations.
Hossain clarified that Bangladesh does not influence India’s relations with Pakistan, nor does India dictate Bangladesh’s approach. He stressed the importance of ensuring that one aspect of bilateral relations does not impede progress in others. The upcoming visit, which includes a bilateral meeting with Hossain on August 24, follows the cancellation of Dar’s earlier planned trip in April due to escalating tensions between Pakistan and India after a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir.
In July 2025, on the sidelines of the UN International Conference on the Two-State Solution, Hossain and Dar expressed deep concern over the ongoing Israeli aggression and humanitarian crisis in Palestine, reaffirming their unwavering support for the Palestinian people. They also reviewed bilateral ties, pledging to enhance political, economic, and cultural cooperation while exploring ways to improve connectivity and people-to-people exchanges.
The Pakistan High Commission in Dhaka noted that both sides reviewed their bilateral relationship and reiterated their commitment to strengthening political, economic, and cultural ties. They also agreed to pursue high-level visits in the near future to further these objectives.
**Key Points:**
- **Visit Date**: August 23, 2025
- **Bilateral Meeting**: August 24, 2025, with Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain
- **Key Issues**: 1971 Liberation War apology, financial compensation, and unresolved asset claims
- **Context**: First major bilateral engagement in 15 years
- **Additional Focus**: Strengthening political, economic, and cultural cooperation, and improving connectivity
Note For Readers:
The CEO handles all legal and staff issues. Claiming human help before the first hearing isn't part of our rules.
Our system uses humans and AI, including freelance journalists, editors, and reporters.
The CEO can confirm if your issue involves a person or AI.
by 
Dhaka is preparing to raise critical issues related to the 1971 Liberation War during the upcoming visit of Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on August 23, 2025, according to Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain. Speaking to journalists at the Foreign Service Academy on Monday (August 4), Hossain stated that Bangladesh is approaching its relationship with Pakistan pragmatically, ensuring that all matters, including a formal public apology and compensation for the 1971 atrocities, will be discussed openly.
