DHAKA: Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Imran Haider, said direct flights may begin soon. He expressed hope that Karachi–Dhaka flights would start in January. Haider shared the expectation during a meeting on Monday. He met Bangladesh’s Chief Advisor, Professor Muhammad Yunus, in Dhaka.
The meeting reflected steadily improving relations between the two countries. Bilateral ties remained strained during Sheikh Hasina’s time in power. However, political changes in Bangladesh altered the diplomatic landscape. Following her removal and exile, relations improved significantly.
Professor Muhammad Yunus now leads Bangladesh’s interim administration. Since then, both sides have increased diplomatic engagement. As a result, cooperation has expanded across several sectors.
Officials described the recent meeting as constructive and forward-looking.
Focus on Trade and Connectivity
According to a statement shared on social media, talks covered key areas. Both sides discussed expanding cooperation in trade and investment. They also focused on aviation links and transport connectivity.
Direct flights emerged as a priority for economic growth.
Haider said bilateral trade has grown by 20 percent this year. He credited active engagement by business communities. Entrepreneurs from both countries are exploring new investments. Therefore, officials see strong potential for further trade growth.
The meeting also highlighted increased cultural interaction. Haider noted a significant rise in cultural exchanges.
He said people-to-people contacts are steadily increasing. These interactions have strengthened mutual understanding.
Education and Medical Cooperation
Haider said Bangladeshi students show growing interest in Pakistan. Many students seek higher education opportunities there. Medical sciences remain a top attraction for Bangladeshi applicants. Students also show interest in nanotechnology and artificial intelligence.
Medical cooperation also featured prominently in discussions. Haider said more Bangladeshi patients now travel to Pakistan. They seek treatment at leading hospitals. Liver and kidney transplants account for most cases.
Pakistan has offered training in transplantation-related medical fields. The high commissioner said Islamabad stands ready to cooperate. Academic and professional exchanges could support healthcare development.
Officials believe medical collaboration can benefit both countries.
Bangladesh’s interim leader welcomed the growing engagement. Professor Yunus stressed the importance of regular visits. He emphasized cultural and educational exchanges. He also highlighted people-to-people contacts within SAARC.
Yunus called for further growth in Bangladesh–Pakistan trade. He expressed hope for new investment avenues.
Joint ventures could strengthen long-term economic ties. He said progress should continue during Haider’s tenure.
Regional Diplomacy and Past Engagements
The meeting followed earlier high-level diplomatic contacts. In August, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar visited Dhaka. The visit marked a major diplomatic milestone. It was the first by a Pakistani foreign minister in 13 years.
Both countries stressed reviving regional cooperation through SAARC. They also agreed on visa-free entry for diplomatic passport holders. That agreement followed Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi’s visit. Together, these steps signal warming bilateral relations.
