Pak, Bangladesh boost ties with direct flights, trade initiatives, says official

LAHORE: Bangladesh’s Foreign Secretary MD Jashim Uddin has commended the governments of Pakistan and Bangladesh for their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations through key initiatives such as easing visa regulations and launching direct flights between the two nations. He expressed particular gratitude to Pakistan’s Minister of Commerce Jam Kamal Khan for swiftly facilitating the immediate opening of Dhaka-Karachi flights.

MD Jashim Uddin voiced optimism that this momentum would continue, encouraging further initiatives to promote unity and shared prosperity in the region. He noted that improved Pakistan-Bangladesh relations could yield multifaceted benefits, including increased trade, cultural exchange and investment opportunities, ultimately fostering stronger economic and social integration across South Asia.

Leading a high-profile delegation of South Asian business leaders to Pakistan, Jashim Uddin advocated for reciprocal open visa regimes, which he deemed crucial for enhancing people-to-people and business-to-business connectivity. He also lauded the Pakistani government’s support for the SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SAARC CCI) headquarters building in Islamabad.

Recently, a Pakistani business delegation, led by FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh, visited Bangladesh to explore avenues for commercial and business collaboration. Jashim Uddin highlighted that SAARC CCI’s persistent efforts were now yielding results. “Our mission to strengthen trade and economic ties among SAARC nations is not just a vision, it is becoming a tangible reality. The initiatives we have spearheaded are fostering greater regional integration and economic collaboration, paving the way for a more interconnected and prosperous South Asia,” he stated.

Airlines from both Pakistan and Bangladesh have now initiated direct flights, significantly reducing travel time and enabling more frequent interactions among business communities. Negotiations are underway for launching a passenger ferry service and establishing direct sea routes, further reinforcing regional cooperation and opening new economic opportunities.

Jashim Uddin reiterated the crucial role of revitalising SAARC in enhancing regional trade and cooperation. “The most cost-effective trade, which directly benefits the public, occurs within neighbouring countries. Strengthening regional ties is not only economically prudent but also socially beneficial,” he asserted.

To build on these gains, he announced the upcoming ‘South Asian Business Leaders Conclave’, scheduled for May 17-18 in Dhaka. This landmark event will bring together business leaders, industrialists, entrepreneurs and political figures from across the region to explore new avenues for cooperation and develop actionable strategies for regional growth.

“The conclave will serve as a dynamic platform for dialogue, partnership, and innovation. It is an opportunity for us to come together, share insights and collaboratively shape the future of South Asian trade and economic integration,” Jashim Uddin explained.

Vice President of the SAARC CCI Pakistan Chapter Mian Anjum Nisar emphasised the transformative potential of enhanced regional connectivity. “People-to-people and business-to-business connectivity are the cornerstones of peaceful, prosperous, and inclusive development. By fostering these connections, we are not just building economic bridges; we are laying the foundation for a unified South Asia, where prosperity is shared, and development is inclusive,” he declared.