Islamabad aims at deepening ties with Dhaka: Asif

ISLAMABAD: Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif highlighted affection between the people of Pakistan and Bangladesh at a reception to celebrate the 54th National and Independence Day of Bangladesh as the chief guest, hosted by Bangladesh High Commissioner Muhammad Iqbal Hussain Khan and his spouse Roushan Naheed.

Khawaja Asif, referring to the cordial ties between the two countries, said that both capitals were keenly working for furthering economic, political, and cultural cooperation. “We value our relations with Bangladesh and look forward to deepening our engagement in various sectors.” He extended his greetings to the government and people of Bangladesh on their Independence and National Day. The minister lauded Bangladesh’s significant progress in the socio-economic sector. Highlighting the historical ties and bilateral relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh, he emphasized the necessity to further strengthening relations to enhance development cooperation between the people of both countries. He highlighted the historic and cultural relations of Pakistan and Bangladesh, as an important source of proximity of the two brotherly countries.

Bangladesh High Commissioner Muhammad Iqbal Hussain, who was hosting his first National Day reception and returned last week from Dhaka after conducting fruitful visit of Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Ms. Amna Baloch, who led consultations between Pakistan and Bangladesh after 15 years, was visibly happy about the turn up of dignitaries in an impressive number. In his address, he emphasised the desire of his country for maintaining strong and friendly ties with Pakistan. He highlighted the beauty and hospitable ambiance of his country and stressed the need for enhanced cooperation and mutual understanding.

Besides, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, federal ministers Professor Ahsan Iqbal Chaudhary, Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhary, Moeen Wattoo, Ham Kamal, Khel Das Kohistani, Malik Rasheed Ahmad, Qaiser Ahmad Sheikh and Muhammad Junaid Anwar were also present. The high commissioner underscored Bangladesh’s desire to maintain strong and friendly relations with Pakistan, while stressing the need for enhanced cooperation and mutual understanding. The event was attended by members of the diplomatic corps, civil society, media, and business community, and featured cultural elements from Bangladesh, including traditional cuisine like Bengali Rashgula and Becky fish, making it a memorable evening.

Muhammad Iqbal Hossain Khan paid deep respect to the freedom fighters and those who participated in the 2024 mass uprising. He stressed the need to realize the aspirations of the people of both countries by strengthening bilateral relations. Earlier national anthems of the two countries were played and the chief guest along with the high commissioner and special guests, cut a cake.