Pakistani Foreign Minister discusses ties with Bangladesh in Dhaka, emphasizing the need to address '71 issues for progress; Jamaat-e-Islami opts to leave resolution for two successive governments.
Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Mohammad Ishaq Dar, is currently on a two-day official visit to Dhaka, Bangladesh. This historic visit, aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations, has seen Dar meet with senior Bangladeshi officials and politicians, as well as leaders from various political parties.
During his visit, Dar held a meeting with the BNP delegation, which included Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Abdul Moyeen Khan, Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, Begum Selim Rahman, Air Vice Marshal (retd) Altaf Hossain Chowdhury, and Shama Obayed. Discussions focused on improving Bangladesh-Pakistan relations, deepening them further, reviving Saarc, and fair elections in Bangladesh.
The BNP meeting also touched upon regional trade ties and the revival of Saarc. NCP Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain stated that their talks reflected a desire to move beyond the "hostile relations of the past". Cooperation in education and health was another topic of conversation, with a focus on fraternal relations in South Asia without any hegemony.
The Jamaat meeting, led by Nayeb-e-Ameer Abdullah Muhammad Taher, also emphasised the need for Muslim nations to adopt a united stance on global challenges, including the Palestinian crisis. Taher stated that unresolved issues of 1971 are for the two governments to discuss. Dar praised Jamaat leaders for their "courage and steadfastness" despite political adversity.
Ishaq Dar's visit has been described as "historic" by the Pakistani foreign ministry. Dar underscored the federal government's "strong desire to forge a cooperative and forward-looking relationship with Bangladesh". In addition to meetings with political leaders, Dar is scheduled to meet BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia tomorrow at 7:30pm at her residence in Gulshan.
Dar extended an invitation to everyone to visit Pakistan to engage with counterparts and contribute to the "new phase of our reinvigorated partnership". Pakistan is committed to engaging with all stakeholders, including the government, political parties, academia, civil society, media, and the youth for the realization of common goals.
In conclusion, Mohammad Ishaq Dar's visit to Bangladesh has been a significant step towards strengthening bilateral relations and promoting regional cooperation. The discussions held during the meetings reflect a shared desire for a peaceful, prosperous, and cooperative South Asia.
