Dhaka, August 24, 2025 – Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar met with Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus at the state guest house Jamuna in Dhaka on Sunday, marking the first visit by a Pakistani foreign minister to Bangladesh in 13 years. The leaders focused on strengthening bilateral relations, enhancing trade, promoting youth and cultural exchanges, and revitalizing the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).
During the courtesy call, Dar conveyed greetings from Pakistan’s Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif. “Our prime minister sends you his best wishes,” Dar told Yunus, who warmly reciprocated, recalling past discussions with Sharif about regional cooperation. “Every time Prime Minister Sharif and I met, we spoke about SAARC. Our visions are aligned, and SAARC remains a top priority for both of us,” Yunus said, extending greetings to Sharif and the people of Pakistan.
Yunus emphasized the importance of regional and bilateral cooperation, particularly in trade and people-to-people connections. “I encourage SAARC, and I see our relationship with Pakistan and other SAARC countries as one of the highest priorities,” he stated. Highlighting the potential for cultural exchanges, he added, “When Pakistani singers perform in Bangladesh, everyone appreciates their talent. That is the spirit we must build upon.”
Dar praised Yunus’ global contributions to poverty alleviation and community empowerment, saying, “Bangladesh is fortunate to have a head of government like you – a leader who inspires the world.” He also noted the complementary nature of the two economies, stating, “There are many areas where we can work together.”
The leaders discussed improving connectivity, with Dar announcing that direct flights between the two nations could begin soon. “By October, we hope ‘Fly Jinnah’ will launch direct flights. The PIA is also expected to start direct flights to Dhaka once privatized,” he said.
Dar also met with Bangladeshi advisers on energy and commerce, as well as representatives from various political parties, to further explore collaboration opportunities. Both leaders expressed optimism that enhanced trade, deeper cultural ties, and stronger regional cooperation would foster a more stable and prosperous South Asia.
The meeting was attended by Lutfey Siddiqi, the Chief Adviser’s Special Envoy for International Affairs.
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