Dhaka, August 23, 2025 – Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar arrived in Bangladesh on Saturday, marking the highest-level visit from Islamabad to Dhaka since 2012. The visit, described by Pakistan’s foreign ministry as a “significant milestone” in bilateral relations, signals a warming of ties between the two Muslim-majority nations, which were once adversaries following their split in 1971.
The two countries are expected to sign multiple agreements on Sunday, focusing on boosting trade and investment. Dar is scheduled to meet Bangladesh’s interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, to discuss deepening cooperation. This follows recent engagements, including a meeting between top military commanders from both nations in Pakistan on Friday and trade talks led by Pakistan’s Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan in Dhaka on Thursday.
The visit comes amid shifting regional dynamics, particularly after a mass uprising in Bangladesh in August 2024 toppled former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government, forcing her to flee to India. Bangladesh’s interim government has since accused India of sheltering Hasina, who faces charges of crimes against humanity, straining Dhaka-New Delhi relations. India, which fought a brief conflict with Pakistan in May, is likely to view the growing Bangladesh-Pakistan ties with concern.
“Bangladesh had been one of India’s closest partners, and now it is engaging with India’s chief adversary,” said Michael Kugelman, a US-based analyst. Thomas Kean of the International Crisis Group added, “The toppling of Hasina was a strategic setback for India, and the improved relations between Bangladesh and Pakistan are a consequence.”
Historical tensions linger from the 1971 war, when East Pakistan gained independence as Bangladesh after a bloody conflict. Bangladeshi estimates claim millions died, with many still demanding an apology from Pakistan for alleged atrocities. Despite this, recent moves, including the start of sea trade last year and expanded government-to-government commerce in February, indicate a mutual interest in rebuilding ties.
The visit underscores Bangladesh’s pivot away from its historical reliance on India, which nearly encircles the nation of 170 million. As Dhaka navigates its new interim government and regional relationships, the international community, particularly India, will be watching closely.
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