Bangladeshi people eager to build stronger ties with Pakistan: HC

ISLAMABAD: Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to Pakistan Md Iqbal Hussain has expressed optimism about a fresh chapter in Islamabad-Dhaka relations, saying the people of Bangladesh—particularly youth—are eager to build stronger ties with Pakistan following the recent political changes in his country.

“Since the political change in July-August last year, the people of Bangladesh, especially the youth, are keen to improve relations with Pakistan. Our government is also showing a positive attitude, and high-level exchanges have taken place from both sides,” Hussain remarked while addressing a cultural festival hosted by the Bangladesh High Commission in Islamabad on Wednesday evening to mark the Bangla New Year 2025.

He acknowledged that bilateral ties had faced difficulties over the past 10 to 15 years but believed the shared history and cultural roots between the two countries still offered a solid foundation for renewed engagement.

“Though our Bangladeshi community in Islamabad is small, Karachi has a sizeable number of Bangladeshi-origin Pakistanis. We organised this gathering with a special aim — to celebrate our shared culture and history with our Pakistani brothers and sisters,” he added.

Federal Information Secretary Ambreen Jan graced the event as the chief guest. In her address, she shared that she had served in Bangladesh for five years and carries fond memories of the country and its people. “Pakistan desires to further enhance its relations with Bangladesh,” she remarked, while appreciating the High Commission’s efforts to promote cultural and people-to-people ties.

The festival drew a large gathering of members from the Bangladeshi community in Pakistan, Pakistani guests, and a visiting Bangladeshi delegation.

The event featured vibrant performances of traditional Bengali music and dance, while several Bengali militaryofficers also took to the stage, singing folk songs to the delight of the audience.

Guests were treated to authentic Bengali cuisine, including the classic rice and fish — a staple combination in Bangladeshi culinary tradition.

The evening’s festivities reflected the warmth, hospitality and enduring cultural bonds between the people of Pakistan and Bangladesh.