[🇧🇩] Bangladesh-Pakistan Relation---Can we look beyond 1971?

[Saif]

Pakistan PM wishes quick recovery of Khaleda

Describing BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia as a towering figure in Bangladesh’s political landscape, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has extended his best wishes for a swift and complete recovery of the former Bangladesh Prime Minister. "I am perturbed to learn about your health iss

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Pakistan PM wishes quick recovery of Khaleda
UNB
Published :
Feb 02, 2025 20:59
Updated :
Feb 02, 2025 20:59

Describing BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia as a towering figure in Bangladesh’s political landscape, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has extended his best wishes for a swift and complete recovery of the former Bangladesh Prime Minister.

"I am perturbed to learn about your health issues and wish to convey my best wishes for your swift and complete recovery,” said PM Sharif in an official letter addressed to the BNP leader.

He acknowledged Khaleda Zia’s significant contributions to Bangladesh's politics. “You have been a towering figure in the political landscape of Bangladesh. Your unwavering dedication to public service remains an inspiration to many,” he wrote in the letter dated January 31.

The Pakistan PM prayed for her good health and well-being. “Our thoughts are with you, your family, and your supporters during this period. May Allah the Almighty protect you from all ailments and grant you good health,” he said.

BNP media cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan confirmed the letter on Sunday.

The three-time former prime minister, Khaleda Zia, has long been suffering from liver cirrhosis, kidney and heart issues, diabetes, and arthritis.

She left Dhaka for London in early January aboard a special air ambulance sent by the Emir of Qatar to receive advanced treatment at the London Clinic.

The 79-year-old, Khaleda Zia, was admitted to the London Clinic on January 8 and discharged from the clinic on January 25. Since then she has continued her medical treatment at her son Tarique Rahman's residence under the supervision of Professor John Patrick Kennedy and Professor Jennifer Cross, both of whom have been overseeing her care at the clinic.​

 

[Saif]

Bangladesh approves Fly Jinnah for Karachi-Dhaka route

Bangladesh has approved Pakistan’s private airline, Fly Jinnah, to operate direct flights on the Karachi-Dhaka route, resuming air connectivity between the two cities after nearly a decade

www.thedailystar.net

Bangladesh approves Fly Jinnah for Karachi-Dhaka route

Representational Image

Bangladesh has approved Pakistan's private airline, Fly Jinnah, to operate direct flights on the Karachi-Dhaka route, resuming air connectivity between the two cities after nearly a decade.

"They (Fly Jinnah) applied to us, and we have approved it," Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) chairman Air Vice Marshal Md Monjur Kabir Bhuiyan told The Daily Star this evening.

Before launching operations, Fly Jinnah has to appoint a local General Sales Agent (GSA) in Bangladesh.

"Now they (Fly Jinnah) will appoint a GSA (General Sales Agent). Once they request slots and frequencies, we will provide them. Our part is currently complete," Bhuiyan said.

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), Pakistan's state-owned flag carrier, last operated direct flights on this route until February 2015.

Fly Jinnah, a budget airline, is a joint venture between Pakistan's Lakson Group and UAE-based Air Arabia, a low-cost carrier headquartered in Sharjah.​

 

[Saif]

Bangladesh imports 5,500MTs molasses from Pakistan

For the first time, Bangladesh has imported molasses from Pakistan through Mongla Port...

www.newagebd.net

Bangladesh imports 5,500MTs molasses from Pakistan
Staff Correspondent 06 February, 2025, 23:43

Commodore Md Shafiqul Islam Sarker, member (harbour & marine) of the Mongla Port Authority, addresses a press conference in the port area on Thursday. | Press release

For the first time, Bangladesh has imported molasses from Pakistan through Mongla Port.

The Panama-flagged vessel MT Dolphin-19 arrived at Mongla Port Thursday morning, carrying 5,500 metric tonnes of molasses from Karachi Port, Pakistan, said a press release.

According to Mongla Port Authority, the vessel departed from Karachi Port on January 22.

Commodore Md Shafiqul Islam Sarker, member (harbour & marine) of the port authority, Md Kamal Hossain, director (traffic), among others, spoke at a press conference after the arrival of the vessel.​

 

[Saif]

Pakistan FM likely to visit Dhaka in April: Touhid

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Thursday said that there was no reason to maintain strained relations with Pakistan, as he disclosed that Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar is expected to visit Dhaka in April. “We are assuming that Pakistan&rsq

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Pakistan FM likely to visit Dhaka in April: Touhid
BSS
Published :
Feb 06, 2025 20:32
Updated :
Feb 06, 2025 20:32

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Thursday said that there was no reason to maintain strained relations with Pakistan, as he disclosed that Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar is expected to visit Dhaka in April.

“We are assuming that Pakistan’s Foreign Minister will visit. However, the exact date has not been finalised yet. But I don’t think it (visit) will be before April,” he told reporters at a media briefing at the foreign ministry this afternoon.

He added, “Both sides are working on it (regarding the visit). There is still time, and we will make some decisions in the meantime.”

When asked whether Dhaka would raise the issue of Pakistan’s apology for its role in 1971 and compensation for Bangladesh, Hossain acknowledged that unresolved issues between the two countries remain even after 53 years and said these matters would be brought up during discussions.

However, he said, “If we remain fixated on those issues, neither side will benefit. We will, of course, try to protect and recover our interests, but at the same time, we want to view our relations with Pakistan as we would with any other country. We do not want to perceive our relationship with them negatively.”

Hossain emphasised that Dhaka views Pakistan as a South Asian nation with which both countries share mutual interests.

The adviser also pointed out that maritime connectivity between Bangladesh and Pakistan has already resumed, bringing positive economic benefits. “We will try to maximise our benefits from this opportunity,” he added.

Responding to another query, the foreign adviser said the previous Awami League-led government intentionally strained relations between Bangladesh and Pakistan, which did not serve the interests of either country.​

 

[Saif]

Pakistan foreign minister likely to visit Bangladesh next month

Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, who is also the foreign minister of the country, would visit Bangladesh in April this year at the invitation of Bangladesh’s Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain. Local news portals said Pakistan foreign ministry’s additional secretary (Asia

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Pakistan foreign minister likely to visit Bangladesh next month
FE ONLINE DESK
Published :
Mar 05, 2025 21:08
Updated :
Mar 06, 2025 00:07

Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, who is also the foreign minister of the country, would visit Bangladesh in April this year at the invitation of Bangladesh’s Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain.

Local news portals said Pakistan foreign ministry’s additional secretary (Asia Pacific) Imran Ahmed Siddiqui arrived in Dhaka as part of preparation for their foreign minister’s upcoming Dhaka visit.

According to BSS, Imran Ahmed Siddiqui held a meeting with Bangladesh’s foreign secretary Md. Jashim Uddin at the foreign ministry in Dhaka on Wednesday.

Siddiqui carried a letter from Pakistan’s foreign minister addressed to Bangladesh's foreign affairs adviser and handed it over to the Foreign Secretary, said a press release.

They also discussed the importance of holding the foreign secretary-level consultations between Bangladesh and Pakistan, the last meeting of which was held in 2010, and the meeting of the Joint Economic Commission, the last meeting of which was held in 2005.

During the meeting, both sides recalled the substantive discussion between Bangladesh's Chief Adviser and Pakistan's Prime Minister during their meetings in Cairo on the sidelines of the D-8 Summit in December 2024 and in New York in September 2024 on the sidelines of the 79th UNGA.

They also recalled the meeting between Bangladesh's Foreign Adviser and Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister on the sidelines of the Commonwealth Heads of Governments Meeting in Apia, Samoa in October 2024.

The discussion also covered the issue of strengthening cooperation to enhance trade and reduce the trade gap.

Both sides expressed satisfaction over the recent visits of several trade delegations from Pakistan to Bangladesh and emphasized the importance of visits by the product-specific trade delegations from Bangladesh to Pakistan.

Cooperation in the sectors of tourism, people-to-people contacts, cultural exchanges, the issue of forcibly displaced Rohingyas and cooperation in the international forum were also discussed.

The importance of strengthened regional and multilateral cooperation through SAARC, OIC, and D-8 was also highlighted.

Siddiqui was accompanied by Pakistan High Commissioner to Bangladesh Syed Ahmed Maroof.​

 

[Saif]

Bangladesh eyes Pakistan as emerging sourcing destination

Bangladesh stands to benefit from enhanced trade ties with Pakistan as local traders are optimistic about getting more competitive prices and a broader range of raw material sources.

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Bangladesh eyes Pakistan as emerging sourcing destination

Bangladesh stands to benefit from enhanced trade ties with Pakistan as local traders are optimistic about getting more competitive prices and a broader range of raw material sources.

Currently, trade dynamics favour Pakistan, with Bangladesh importing cotton, yarn, fabrics, and essential commodities from the country.

However, these imports are still considerably lower than those from China and India -- Bangladesh's top two trading partners.

Historically, the trade relationship between Bangladesh and Pakistan has been lukewarm, preventing Pakistan from becoming a major sourcing hub.

For instance, Bangladesh exported goods worth $39.77 million to Pakistan in the July–December of the current fiscal year, according to the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB).

In the fiscal year 2023–24, Bangladesh's exports to Pakistan totalled $61.98 million, a 31.78 percent decline from $83.59 million in 2022–23.

This was far outweighed by Bangladesh's imports from Pakistan, which stood at $372.1 million in the July-December period of FY25, according to Bangladesh Bank data. In FY24, imports from Pakistan amounted to $627.8 million, down from $698.7 million in FY23.

Although there are no formal trade restrictions between the two South Asian neighbours, Pakistan has yet to emerge as a major sourcing destination due to weak trade relations.

In FY24, Bangladesh imported goods worth $16.63 billion from China, representing 26.4 percent of the country's total imports for that year. That same year, imports from India stood at $9 billion, accounting for 14.3 percent of Bangladesh's total imports.

By contrast, imports from Pakistan amounted to just $627.8 million, or 1 percent of the total, making Pakistan Bangladesh's 20th largest import destination.

A majority of this amount, $476.3 million, was spent on cotton imports.

Mohammad Abdur Razzaque, chairman of Research and Policy Integration for Development, said that Bangladesh needs a reliable, competitive and diversified supply of key commodities, including food and energy, for future economic growth.

Pakistan could be a valuable sourcing destination in this regard, increasing competition among supplying countries, he added.

The economist said that tariff and non-tariff barriers should be discussed and rationalised between the two governments.

Although Bangladesh enjoys trade privileges with Pakistan under the South Asian Free Trade Agreement as a least developed country, the benefit remains minimal due to low export volumes.

Razzaque does not see an immediate need for a Free Trade Agreement with Pakistan, saying such deals may be prioritised with major trading partners. Moreover, a boost in trade between Bangladesh and Pakistan could also enhance intra-regional commerce in South Asia.

Currently, intra-regional trade accounts for less than 5 percent of South Asia's total overseas trade, partly due to the limited effectiveness of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc), which was established in 1985 to increase economic collaboration.

Abul Kasem Khan, former president of the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI), said Bangladesh would benefit from expanding trade with Pakistan, which has been largely stagnant for the past 15 years.

"It would be a positive development for business," he said, highlighting price competitiveness as a key factor.

Khan said Bangladesh could source Pakistani cotton and denim fabrics at lower, more competitive prices.

Mir Nasir Hossain, a former president of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), echoed a similar view.

Expanding trade with Pakistan would offer Bangladesh more sourcing options and diversified connectivity, he said, adding that Bangladesh could also increase its exports of jute and tea to Pakistan.

He recalled that during his tenure as FBCCI president in 2005, bilateral trade talks between the two countries gained momentum, but negotiations later stalled.

An FTA between Pakistan and Bangladesh was first proposed in 2002 and discussed again at the 2004 Saarc summit. However, it was not finalised as Pakistan did not accept Bangladesh's request for unilateral and unconditional market access, according to The Atlantic Council, an American think tank in the field of international affairs.

The Pakistan Business Council (PBC), a pan-industry advocacy forum based in Karachi, conducted a study titled "Trade and Investment Opportunities in a Pakistan–Bangladesh Free Trade Agreement (FTA)" in 2022.

The report highlights the longstanding trade imbalance in favour of Pakistan.

Pakistani exports to Bangladesh declined from $947.23 million in 2011 to $583.44 million in 2020, while imports from Bangladesh fell from $82.73 million in 2011 to $61.94 million in 2020.

In 2020, Pakistan recorded a trade surplus of $521.5 million with Bangladesh, the biggest in the past decade.

According to the PBC's analysis, Pakistan has an export potential of at least $2.95 billion in Bangladesh, mainly in textiles, agriculture, foodstuffs, chemicals, base metals, plastics and cement products.

The top 25 commodities alone had an estimated export potential of $1.24 billion in 2020, yet Pakistan's actual exports for these items amounted to just $435.78 million, according to the analysis.

To strengthen bilateral trade, the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry and the FBCCI signed a memorandum of understanding on 13 January this year to form the Pakistan–Bangladesh Joint Business Council (PBJBC).

FBCCI Administrator Md Hafizur Rahman, who led the Bangladeshi delegation at the joint meeting, acknowledged the potential for increased trade.

However, he pointed out that trade volumes remained low, possibly due to political factors.

He also cited weak connectivity as a challenge, saying that the lack of a direct shipping line and visa complications had hampered trade in the past.

However, now Pakistan has eased its visa process for Bangladeshis, offering approval within 24 hours of application.

A direct shipping line is also now in place, so trade with Pakistan is expected to grow significantly, increasing connectivity and engagement between businesses in both countries, he added.

Regarding Pakistan as a sourcing destination for cotton, yarn, and fabrics, Rahman said local textile and garment manufacturers diversified their sourcing strategies a few years ago, with Pakistan becoming one of several key suppliers.

He said Bangladeshi spinners and traders now import cotton from Argentina, Australia, Brazil, the US, several African nations and Pakistan, reducing their dependency on India.

Showkat Aziz Russell, president of the Bangladesh Textile Mills Association, said Bangladeshi cotton traders and spinners were importing more cotton from Pakistan due to its competitive pricing.

"Pakistani cotton is much cheaper now because of the heavy devaluation of its currency," he said.

Previously, bulk imports from Pakistan were limited due to weak bilateral relations, but with strengthened trade ties, higher volumes are expected, he added.​

 

[Saif]

Pak PM invites Dr Yunus; sees bright future for Dhaka-Islamabad ties

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has invited Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus to visit Pakistan at his convenience as he sees “bright future” for Dhaka-Islamabad ties. He shared a post on his verified X account. The Pak prime minister had a “pleasant telephone conversatio

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Pak PM invites Dr Yunus; sees bright future for Dhaka-Islamabad ties
UNB
Published :
Mar 31, 2025 18:12
Updated :
Mar 31, 2025 18:12

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has invited Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus to visit Pakistan at his convenience as he sees “bright future” for Dhaka-Islamabad ties.

He shared a post on his verified X account.

The Pak prime minister had a “pleasant telephone conversation” with Dr Yunus on Monday and exchanged Eid ul Fitr greetings.

Sharif reaffirmed their “shared commitment” to further strengthen Bangladesh-Pakistan ties.

He said they looking forward to Pakistan deputy prime minister and foreign minister’s visit to Dhaka on April 22 accompanied by a trade delegation.

Apart from reiterating his “cordial invitation” to Dr Yunus to visit Pakistan at his convenience, the Pakistan PM invited a cultural troupe from Bangladesh to Pakistan with legendary singer Runa Laila.

“The future looks bright for Pakistan-Bangladesh ties, Inshallah,” Sharif said.​

 

[Saif]

Pakistan’s Engro CEO meets Dr Yunus; eyes business opportunities in Bangladesh

Abdul Samad Dawood, CEO of Engro Holdings of Pakistan, on Thursday said they are excited about the potential in Bangladesh’s telecommunications sector, and also see a great promise in partnering to help distribute gas from Bhola to fuel industrial growth. Dawood made the remarks when he met

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Pakistan’s Engro CEO meets Dr Yunus; eyes business opportunities in Bangladesh
FE Online Desk
Published :
Apr 10, 2025 19:53
Updated :
Apr 10, 2025 19:53

Abdul Samad Dawood, CEO of Engro Holdings of Pakistan, on Thursday said they are excited about the potential in Bangladesh’s telecommunications sector, and also see a great promise in partnering to help distribute gas from Bhola to fuel industrial growth.

Dawood made the remarks when he met Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna to discuss investment opportunities in Bangladesh, reports UNB.

During the meeting, the Engro CEO expressed a strong interest in expanding the company’s footprint in Bangladesh, particularly in the telecommunications and energy sectors, said the Chief Adviser’s press wing.

Welcoming the interest, Chief Adviser Dr Yunus emphasised the importance of sustainable and forward-looking collaboration.

“We should focus on long-term projects that bring improvements to the lives of our people,” he said.

Dawood, who came to join the Bangladesh Investment Summit, praised the four-day long conference, which was hosted by the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA).

“The BIDA Summit had a human touch—it felt sincere, welcoming, and purposeful. It was remarkable to see so many top companies represented under one roof,” he said.

Prof Yunus encouraged Engro’s leadership to visit Bangladesh again and see the scope for collaboration across sectors.

“I invite you to come again. Bangladesh has a lot to offer—not just to investors, but to the world,” the Chief Adviser added.

Chief Adviser’s Special Envoy for International Affairs Lutfey Siddiqi, SDGs Affairs Principal Coordinator Lamiya Morshed and Principal Secretary Siraz Uddin Miah were also present at the meeting.​

 

[Saif]

Dhaka, Islamabad to hold FS-level talks Thursday after 15 years

Bangladesh and Pakistan will hold Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) in Dhaka on Thursday, marking the first such meeting since 2010. Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin and Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch will lead the Bangladesh and Pakistan sides respectively at the FOC to be held

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Dhaka, Islamabad to hold FS-level talks Thursday after 15 years
Published :
Apr 15, 2025 21:30
Updated :
Apr 15, 2025 21:36

Bangladesh and Pakistan will hold Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) in Dhaka on Thursday, marking the first such meeting since 2010.

Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin and Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch will lead the Bangladesh and Pakistan sides respectively at the FOC to be held at state guest house Padma, reports UNB.

Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Baloch, who assumed the charge as the 33rd Foreign Secretary of Pakistan on September 11 last year, is scheduled to arrive in Dhaka on Wednesday to join the talks with her Bangladesh counterpart, a senior official at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs told UNB.

Pakistan wanted to hold the consultations with Bangladesh as part of Islamabad’s efforts to strengthen the ties with Dhaka.

Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar is also scheduled to pay an official visit to Bangladesh later this month.

Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam on Tuesday said there will be discussions on all issues of mutual interest as the Deputy Prime Minister of Pakistan is coming.

Ishaq Dar’s upcoming trip to Dhaka will mark the first visit by a Pakistani Foreign Minister since 2012.

Both sides, in their recent interactions, expressed satisfaction over recent visits of several trade delegations from Pakistan to Bangladesh and emphasised the importance of visits by the product specific trade delegations from Bangladesh to Pakistan.

Cooperation in the sectors of tourism, people-to-people contacts, cultural exchanges, the issue of forcibly displaced Rohingyas and cooperation in the international forum were also discussed.

Both sides recalled the substantive discussion between Bangladesh’s chief adviser and the prime minister of Pakistan during their meetings in Cairo on the sidelines of D-8 Summit in December 2024 and in New York in September 2024 on the sidelines of the 79th UNGA.

They also recalled the meeting between the foreign adviser and deputy prime minister and foreign minister of Pakistan on the sidelines of the Commonwealth Heads of Governments Meeting in Apia, Samoa in October 2024.​

 

[Saif]

Pakistan foreign secretary Amna Balooch arrives in Dhaka

Pakistan foreign secretary Amna Balooch arrived in Dhaka Wednesday. She was received at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport by Ishrat Jahan, director general of South Asia wing at the foreign ministry. Amna Balooch arrived in Dhaka to join a foreign secretary level talks between the two...

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Pakistan foreign secretary Amna Balooch arrives in Dhaka
Diplomatic CorrespondentDhaka
Published: 16 Apr 2025, 16: 03

Pakistan foreign secretary Amna Balooch was received at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport by Ishrat Jahan, director general of South Asia wing at the foreign ministry on 16 April Collected

Pakistan foreign secretary Amna Balooch arrived in Dhaka Wednesday.

She was received at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport by Ishrat Jahan, director general of South Asia wing at the foreign ministry.

Amna Balooch arrived in Dhaka to join a foreign secretary level talks between the two South Asian countries.

The talks, the first such meeting in 15 years, will take place at state guest house Padma on Thursday, with foreign secretary of Bangladesh Md Jasim Uddin leading the host delegation and Amna Baloch leading the Pakistani side.

According to the draft itinerary, Baloch will attend the high-level talks scheduled for Thursday morning.

Later, she will pay courtesy calls on foreign affairs adviser Md Touhid Hossain and chief adviser to the interim government Professor Muhammad Yunus.

Speaking to Prothom Alo, foreign secretary Md Jasim Uddin said the foreign secretary-level meeting is going to take place in Dhaka on 17 April. Both sides will discuss a wide range of bilateral issues, including unresolved historical matters between the two nations.​

 

[Saif]

Ways needed to overcome hurdles for stronger ties with Pakistan: CA

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Thursday laid emphasis on strengthening ties with Pakistan to boost mutual cooperation and explore trade and business potential by overcoming certain hurdles. "There are certain hurdles. We have to find ways to overcome those and move forward," he said whe

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Ways needed to overcome hurdles for stronger ties with Pakistan: CA
UNB
Published :
Apr 17, 2025 19:42
Updated :
Apr 17, 2025 19:42

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Thursday laid emphasis on strengthening ties with Pakistan to boost mutual cooperation and explore trade and business potential by overcoming certain hurdles.

"There are certain hurdles. We have to find ways to overcome those and move forward," he said when Pakistani Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch met him at the State Guest Jamuna.

Acknowledging past issues, Baloch, the first Pakistani foreign secretary to visit Bangladesh in 15 years, said Bangladesh and Pakistan must find ways to "harness the potential between the two countries".

"We have huge intra-market potential on our own rights, and we should use it. We can't miss the bus every time," Baloch said.

She said that there is a need for a regular B2B interaction between the private sectors of two countries and exchange visits at all levels.

In January 2025, a delegation of the FPCCI visited Bangladesh and signed an MoU with the FBCCI, said the Chief Adviser's press wing.

The Pakistan foreign secretary hoped that the upcoming visit of the country's Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar at the end of April would further boost relations between the two countries.

The Chief Adviser said he always preferred closer ties with neighbouring countries, including Pakistan, in the framework of SAARC.

He said Bangladesh and Pakistan should exchange more youth and cultural programmes between the two countries to increase the people-to-people bonding. "We kept missing each other for a long time as our relationship was frozen. We have to overcome the barriers," he said.

The Chief Adviser recalled his meeting with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in New York on the sidelines of the 79th UNGA in September 2024 and in Cairo on the sidelines of the D-8 Summit in December 2024, saying that they were the key to making progress in bilateral relations.

He said Bangladesh and Pakistan will continue to work closely at multilateral and regional forums like SAARC, OIC and D-8.

Senior Secretary on SDGs Affairs Lamiya Morshed and Pakistan High Commissioner to Bangladesh Syed Ahmed Maroof were, among others, present.​

 

[Saif]

https://thefinancialexpress.com.bd/national/pakistan-raises-kashmir-issue-during-bilateral-consultations-with-bangladesh

Pakistan raises Kashmir issue during bilateral consultations with Bangladesh
FE Online Report
Published :
Apr 18, 2025 20:02
Updated :
Apr 18, 2025 20:13

In the sixth round of the Foreign Secretary-Level Bilateral Consultations in Dhaka, the Foreign Secretary of Pakistan briefed the Bangladeshi side on the situation in India’s illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), emphasising the need for an early resolution of the dispute in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people, said a statement from the Pakistan Foreign Ministry on Friday.

Pakistan and Bangladesh convened the sixth round of the Foreign Secretary-Level Bilateral Consultations in Dhaka on 17 April 2025, following a hiatus of 15 years.

The talks, led by Foreign Secretary of Pakistan Amna Baloch and Foreign Secretary of Bangladesh Md Jashim Uddin (Bangladesh), were held in a cordial atmosphere and reflected a shared resolve to revitalise bilateral engagement, the statement said.

The two sides held a comprehensive exchange on political, economic, cultural, educational, and strategic cooperation, underpinned by shared history, cultural affinities, and the common aspirations of their peoples. Satisfaction was expressed at recent high-level contacts in New York, Cairo, Samoa, and Jeddah, which have helped re-energise the bilateral relationship.

Both sides emphasised the importance of maintaining momentum through regular institutional dialogue, early finalisation of pending agreements, and enhanced cooperation in trade, agriculture, education, and connectivity.

Pakistan offered academic opportunities in its agricultural universities, while Bangladesh offered technical training in fisheries and maritime studies. The Bangladeshi side also acknowledged scholarship offers from private universities in Pakistan and underscored the need for deeper cooperation in the education sector.

On multilateral issues, both sides reaffirmed the need to revitalise SAARC in line with its founding principles. The Foreign Secretary appreciated the vision of the Bangladeshi leadership and expressed hope that the SAARC process would remain insulated from bilateral political considerations.

While reviewing the Middle East situation, the two sides strongly condemned the ongoing Israeli aggression and grave human rights violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, particularly in Gaza.

According to the statement, the Bangladeshi side appreciated recent performances by renowned Pakistani artists in Dhaka, while the Pakistani side encouraged reciprocal cultural exchanges. Prospects for broader cooperation in sports, media, and cultural institutions were discussed, including the finalisation of various MoUs in these areas.

The Pakistan Foreign Secretary held separate meetings with Bangladesh Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus and Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain.

Discussions focused on regional integration, economic linkages, and the importance of insulating bilateral ties from external pressures. A shared commitment to a forward-looking partnership emerged. The Foreign Adviser looked forward to the forthcoming visit of Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan, the statement added.

While thanking the Chief Adviser for the warm hospitality, Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch conveyed best wishes to him from Pakistan's leadership.

The next round of Consultations will be held in Islamabad in 2026.​

 

[Saif]

There are examples of turning ex-enemies into allies: Azad Majumder

He mentioned that France and England fought countless wars for centuries, but joined hands in the Second World War.

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There are examples of turning ex-enemies into allies: Azad Majumder
BSS Dhaka
Updated: 18 Apr 2025, 18: 25

Chief adviser’s deputy press secretary, Abul Kalam Azad Majumder, speaks at a press briefing at the Foreign Service Academy. BSS file photo

Claiming that the interim government has taken a pro-Bangladesh foreign policy, Chief Adviser's Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder has said there are examples of turning former enemies into allies in the world.

"There are many instances of former enemies turning into allies," he wrote in a post on his verified Facebook account.

Citing examples, he mentioned that France and England fought countless wars for centuries, but joined hands in the Second World War.

The US bombed Japan in the same war, but later turned the country into an ally, Azad said.

He added: "The other day, we faced a question about whether Bangladesh is shifting its foreign policy to be pro-Pakistan. It did not surprise us at all."

There will always be some people who will rarely believe in Bangladesh’s independent identity, he said.

"Our response was obvious. Irrespective of whatever happened in the past with regard to the country’s foreign policy, it will be a pro-Bangladesh policy from now on, driven by our own interest," the deputy press secretary said.

Distancing from one neighbour to keep another happy cannot be the foreign policy of an independent nation, he added.

He said it took the interim government less than 24 hours to translate its words into action by reminding Amna Baloch, the visiting foreign secretary of Pakistan, the outstanding issues between the two countries, while at the same time agreeing to work together for mutual benefits.

One of the emotive issues, of course hindering Bangladesh-Pakistan relations, is Bangladesh’s demand for an apology from Pakistan for the genocide and atrocities committed by its armed forces in 1971, Azad said.

He said even many in Pakistan’s civil society, media, and intelligentsia believed that an apology would be an act of goodwill and grace, but the Pakistan’s Foreign Office and military bureaucracy were always opposed to such an idea, and thus a formal apology never came.

Bangladesh also pressed for the issue of division of assets, which was a forgotten matter for the past regimes, who preferred disengagement to talks, the deputy press secretary said.

According to an estimate, he said, Bangladesh has a claim of at least US$ 4.32 billion as of 1974.

The estimate was based on assumptions with respect to internal capital creation, external debt settlement, and retention of external financial assets, he mentioned.

He said Bangladesh has an additional claim of about US$ 200 million, which was donated by foreign countries/agencies for the cyclone victims of the then East Pakistan in November 1970.

“The money was lying in the office of the State Bank of Pakistan in Dhaka before it was transferred to the Lahore Branch of the State Bank of Pakistan during our war of liberation in 1971,” Azad said.

He said the repatriation of stranded Pakistanis was another issue that hindered the relationship between the two countries.

In the past, he said, Pakistan only took back around 125,000 of its people, but some 325,000 are housed in 79 camps in 14 districts of Bangladesh.

Azad said these are the issues that continued to remain as barriers in order to move towards a healthy and forward-looking bilateral relationship between the two countries.

"And the best option to resolve the issues is obviously talks, and this is exactly what the interim government is trying to do.

"It has brought Pakistan to talks after long years and duly raised the issues while at the same time looking to explore trade and commerce potential for mutual benefits," he wrote in his post.

The deputy press secretary reminded that Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, during his meeting with his counterpart Shehbaz Sharif in Egypt earlier this year, spoke about the need for resolving the outstanding issues, and on Thursday, while holding a meeting with Baloch at the State Guest House Jamuna, he reiterated his call.

But, in the same meeting, Prof Yunus insisted on a sound relationship with neighbouring countries, including Pakistan, to tap the huge economic potential of the region, he said.

"It is perhaps time for Bangladesh and Pakistan to move on and work together to resolve the past issues for future benefits," Azad said.​

 

[Saif]

Talks with Bangladesh reflected a shared resolve to revitalise bilateral engagement: Pakistan

The sixth round of Foreign Secretary-level bilateral consultations between Bangladesh and Pakistan reflected a shared resolve to revitalise bilateral engagement, Pakistan foreign ministry said in a statement on Friday. The statement, published in the website of Pakistan foreign ministry, said...

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Talks with Bangladesh reflected a shared resolve to revitalise bilateral engagement: Pakistan
Prothom Alo English Desk
Published: 18 Apr 2025, 17: 26

Bangladesh Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin and Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch led their respective sides during the FOC held at the State Guest House Padma in Dhaka on 17 April 2025 File photo

The sixth round of Foreign Secretary-level bilateral consultations between Bangladesh and Pakistan reflected a shared resolve to revitalise bilateral engagement, Pakistan foreign ministry said in a statement on Friday.

The statement, published in the website of Pakistan foreign ministry, said, “Pakistan and Bangladesh convened the Sixth Round of Foreign Secretary-Level Bilateral Consultations in Dhaka on 17 April 2025, following a hiatus of 15 years. The talks, led by Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch (Pakistan) and Foreign Secretary Md. Jashim Uddin (Bangladesh), were held in a cordial atmosphere and reflected a shared resolve to revitalise bilateral engagement.”

It further said the two sides held a comprehensive exchange on political, economic, cultural, educational, and strategic cooperation, underpinned by shared history, cultural affinities, and the common aspirations of their peoples.

“Satisfaction was expressed at recent high-level contacts in New York, Cairo, Samoa, and Jeddah, which have helped reenergise the bilateral relationship.”

According to the statement, both sides emphasised the importance of maintaining momentum through regular institutional dialogue, early finalisation of pending agreements, and enhanced cooperation in trade, agriculture, education, and connectivity. “Pakistan offered academic opportunities in its agricultural universities, while Bangladesh offered technical training in fisheries and maritime studies. The Bangladeshi side also acknowledged scholarship offers from private universities in Pakistan and underscored the need for deeper cooperation in the education sector.”

The Pakistan foreign ministry statement further said that recognising connectivity as a priority, the two sides welcomed the launch of direct shipping between Karachi and Chittagong and emphasised the importance of resuming direct air links. They also expressed satisfaction over the progress made in easing travel and visa facilitation.

“The Bangladeshi side appreciated recent performances by renowned Pakistani artists in Dhaka, while the Pakistani side encouraged reciprocal cultural exchanges. Prospects for broader cooperation in sports, media, and cultural institutions were discussed, including the finalisation of various MoUs in these areas.”

“On multilateral issues, both sides reaffirmed the need to revitalise SAARC in line with its founding principles. The Foreign Secretary appreciated the vision of the Bangladeshi leadership and expressed hope that the SAARC process would remain insulated from bilateral political considerations,” the statement read.

The Kashmir issue was also raised in the meeting. According to the statement, Pakistan emphasised the need for an early resolution of the dispute regarding Kashmir in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions. The two sides in the meeting strongly condemned the ongoing Israeli aggression and grave human rights violations in the Palestinian territories, particularly in Gaza.

The Pakistan Foreign Secretary called on Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus and Foreign Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain separately. Their discussions focused on regional integration, economic linkages, and the importance of insulating bilateral ties from external pressures.

The Foreign Adviser looked forward to the forthcoming visit of Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan, to Bangladesh.

The next round of Consultations will be held in Islamabad in 2026, the statement added.​

 

[Saif]

Thaw in Bangladesh-Pakistan ties a welcome development

Pakistan should apologise for its 1971 role to smoothen transition

www.thedailystar.net

Thaw in Bangladesh-Pakistan ties a welcome development
Pakistan should apologise for its 1971 role to smoothen transition

VISUAL: STAR

It is encouraging to see constructive discussions at the first foreign-secretary-level talks held between Bangladesh and Pakistan in 15 years. Given the complex and often strained history between the two countries, the meeting marked a gradual thaw in relations as both sides sought to build on earlier interactions between the two heads of state in September and December. At the meeting, among other topics, Dhaka notably raised two historically unresolved issues: it demanded $4.52 billion as Bangladesh's share of pre-1971 assets and dues as well as a formal apology for the genocide committed during the Liberation War. It also requested the repatriation of stranded Pakistanis from Bangladesh. In response, the Pakistani delegation expressed a willingness to continue discussions.

We must say that while economic imperatives likely, and rightly, drive ongoing efforts, addressing these issues is vital to a solid foundation for bilateral relations. Pakistan's pre-1971 role remains a deep wound for Bangladeshis and a stumbling block to building a truly fruitful partnership. There may be debates about the number of civilians killed by Pakistani forces, but the repressions and brutalities we suffered during our independence struggle are a matter of historical record. For us, asking for a formal apology or reparations is not about seeking revenge; it's about the need for admission of a historic tragedy and fostering genuine reconciliation. That said, we need to be prudent given the complexities involved.

While economic imperatives likely, and rightly, drive ongoing efforts, addressing historic issues is vital to a solid foundation for bilateral relations. Pakistan's pre-1971 role remains a deep wound for Bangladeshis and a stumbling block to building a truly fruitful partnership. There may be debates about the number of civilians killed by Pakistani forces, but the repressions and brutalities we suffered during our independence struggle are a matter of historical record. For us, asking for a formal apology or reparations is not about seeking revenge; it's about the need for admission of a historic tragedy and fostering genuine reconciliation.

For context, apologies issued by Japan for wartime atrocities in South Korea and China were often seen as insufficient as they were deemed vague, lacking legal reparations, or undermined by subsequent statements and actions of politicians. This highlights the difficulty of securing apologies that are both meaningful and enduring. Nevertheless, sustained diplomatic pressure has, at times, prompted renewed gestures of atonement from Japan. We must learn from such examples and engage with Pakistan accordingly. On Pakistan's side, a formal apology would also help its own collective reckoning as much as it would mend ties with us. The economic aspect of Bangladesh's demands could prove to be more challenging, however. As of April 4, Pakistan's foreign exchange reserves stood at $15.75 billion. Meeting the demand for $4.52 billion would mean parting with more than a quarter of those reserves—an unfeasible prospect at the moment. We, therefore, need to approach the issue with patience and strategic foresight.

It's important to remember that both sides have much to gain from an improved relationship, not just economically but also in other areas of shared interest. Bangladesh's exports to Pakistan stood at $61.98 million in FY2024, while imports from Pakistan were $627.8 million—a gap that greater cooperation can help address. However, these imports are still considerably lower than those from China and India. Enhanced trade ties with Pakistan could diversify our sourcing markets and offer competitive advantages. Already, direct shipping has begun between Bangladesh and Pakistan, while trade and visa procedures are getting easier, with direct flights on the cards.

Of course, sensitivities rooted in something as crucial as 1971 will not vanish overnight. But a future-oriented approach—combining constructive dialogue, historical reckoning, and acknowledgement of mutual benefits—can go a long way. The first steps in that direction have already been taken. We hope that the scheduled visit of Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar later in the month would further normalise Bangladesh-Pakistan relations.​

 

[Saif]

Resetting BD-Pak relations: Wishes and realities

Over the past year, there has been a cautious but notable thaw in the once-frozen diplomatic ties between Bangladesh and Pakistan. The change came in the wake of political transition in Bangladesh following the fall of the Awami League government on August 5 last year and installation of an interim

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Resetting BD-Pak relations: Wishes and realities
MIR MOSTAFIZUR RAHAMAN
Published :
Apr 21, 2025 23:00
Updated :
Apr 21, 2025 23:00

Over the past year, there has been a cautious but notable thaw in the once-frozen diplomatic ties between Bangladesh and Pakistan. The change came in the wake of political transition in Bangladesh following the fall of the Awami League government on August 5 last year and installation of an interim government. Keen to pursue a pragmatic foreign policy, the new administration initiated moves to re-engage with Islamabad. This shift marked a significant departure from more than 15 years of virtual diplomatic stagnation between the two nations.

In that context, Bangladesh took some important steps -- restoring a direct shipping link and granting permission for a Pakistani airline to operate direct flights to Dhaka. Diplomatic overtures were reinforced when Bangladesh's Chief Adviser met Pakistan's Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in September. The leaders agreed to revitalise the bilateral relationship and explore new avenues of cooperation.

The latest in this string of initiatives was the 6th round of Foreign Office Consultations (FoC), held in Dhaka last week. It drew considerable attention from diplomatic circles in South Asia, as it signalled a potential new chapter in the Bangladesh-Pakistan relationship. The discussions covered a wide range of issues -- economic, educational, agricultural, and cultural -- tapping into shared history and the aspirations of both peoples. At face value, the talks were cordial and comprehensive, with expressions of satisfaction on both sides regarding recent high-level engagements in global forums such as New York, Cairo, Samoa, and Jeddah.

Yet beneath this seemingly smooth surface lies a stubborn historical fracture -- one that remains unhealed, unresolved, and overlooked: the unresolved legacy of the 1971 Liberation War.

Despite the optimistic tone, the talks revealed a familiar impasse. Bangladesh reiterated three long-standing demands, all of which remain unmet since its emergence as an independent nation over five decades ago. These are; a formal apology from Pakistan for the genocide committed during the 1971 Liberation War; Bangladesh's rightful share of pre-independence financial assets held in Pakistan's central treasury; and repatriation of stranded Pakistanis still living in refugee camps across Bangladesh.

Sadly, Pakistan remained non-committal on all three counts. Although both sides publicly claimed the meeting was "fruitful" and that they would "remain engaged" on the outstanding issues, Islamabad's own statement tellingly omitted any mention of the three core demands. This silence has not gone unnoticed in Dhaka, sparking widespread scepticism about Pakistan's sincerity. Can these long-standing wounds simply be glossed over in the name of moving forward?

The short answer is no.

There can be no genuine reset in relations between Bangladesh and Pakistan without a full and formal acknowledgement of the atrocities committed by the Pakistan Army during the 1971 Liberation War. That war was not merely a political separation -- it was a brutal, bloody genocide. Over three million Bangladeshis were killed. Tens of thousands of women were subjected to rape and systematic sexual violence. Homes, schools, and places of worship were destroyed. Entire villages were burnt to the ground. These crimes are not mere footnotes in history -- they are etched into the collective consciousness of Bangladesh, shaping its national identity and moral memory.

A meaningful reconciliation cannot be built on denial, silence, or diplomatic evasion. It requires truth, justice, and accountability. The most fundamental starting point for that is an unambiguous, unconditional apology from Pakistan to the people of Bangladesh. Without such a gesture, talk of cooperation in trade, education, and connectivity will remain hollow-lacking the moral foundation necessary for any long-term partnership.

Many observers in Bangladesh and beyond have pointed to examples around the world where nations have sought to right historical wrongs through apology and reparation. From Germany's post-Holocaust stance to South Africa's Truth and Reconciliation Commission, the international precedent is clear: true healing begins with acknowledgement.

Pakistan has, over the years, expressed "regret" or "sorrow" in vague diplomatic language -- but that is not enough. Regret is not accountability. Sorrow is not justice. Bangladesh is not seeking vengeance; it is seeking closure. That closure must be delivered with the courage to say, in no uncertain terms: "We are sorry for the crimes committed in 1971."

In addition to the apology, the other two demands -- fair distribution of financial assets and the humane resolution of the status of stranded Pakistanis -- are also essential for repairing trust. These are not new or unreasonable demands; they are rooted in international principles of equity and responsibility. It is worth remembering that Bangladesh has, for decades, housed tens of thousands of "Bihari" Pakistanis in makeshift camps, offering humanitarian support while awaiting a lasting solution from Islamabad. This burden cannot be borne indefinitely, especially without Pakistan's direct participation in the repatriation process.

The economic and academic cooperation discussed during the FoC -- including scholarships, agricultural training, and maritime studies -- are certainly welcome. But they are not a substitute for justice. Similarly, shared concerns on multilateral platforms, such as the condemnation of Israeli aggression in Gaza or the call to revitalise SAARC, reflect some alignment in international views. However, these areas of consensus should not be used to deflect attention from the historic wrongs that still demand redress.

In this context, the path forward for Pakistan is clear.

If it genuinely wants to restore normalcy and rebuild trust with Bangladesh, it must exhibit the moral courage to confront its past. That includes offering a public, official apology-one that does not hide behind euphemisms or deflect responsibility. This should not be seen as an act of weakness, but rather a bold step toward moral leadership and reconciliation. Only then can the two nations, linked by history and geography, begin to forge a future free from the shadows of 1971.

Furthermore, Bangladesh must also remain firm in its principles during this diplomatic outreach. Resetting ties should not come at the cost of forgetting history. Economic cooperation, people-to-people contacts, and regional integration are all valuable, but not at the expense of justice. The wounds of 1971 are too deep to be buried under trade deals and cultural exchanges alone.

The recent meetings between Bangladesh and Pakistan have opened a diplomatic window, but it is one that must be used wisely. Symbolic gestures must now give way to substantive action. Until Pakistan formally acknowledges and apologises for its war crimes, any effort to "revamp" bilateral ties will remain, at best, superficial.

Healing begins with truth. Reconciliation begins with justice. And in this case, justice begins with a clear, loud, and unequivocal apology from Pakistan. Nothing less will suffice.​

 

[Saif]

Pakistan FM Ishak Dar’s Bangladesh tour postponed

Pakistan’s deputy prime minister and foreign minister Ishak Dar’s 2-day visit to Bangladesh has been postponed. The foreign ministry of Pakistan disclosed this on Thursday. He was supposed to reach Dhaka on 27 April.

en.prothomalo.com

Pakistan FM Ishak Dar’s Bangladesh tour postponed
Diplomatic Correspondent Dhaka
Published: 24 Apr 2025, 21: 27

Pakistan foreign minister Ishak Dar Courtesy: Pakistan foreign ministry

Pakistan’s deputy prime minister and foreign minister Ishak Dar’s 2-day visit to Bangladesh has been postponed.

The foreign ministry of Pakistan disclosed this on Thursday. He was supposed to reach Dhaka on 27 April.

The Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a message that in the wake of the unwarranted situation the deputy prime minister and foreign minister of Pakistan will not be able to visit Bangladesh on 27 and 28 April. The new date for the visit will be fixed on the basis of discussions between the two sides.

The announcement came, following the deadly terrorist attack that killed at least 26 tourists, the deadliest terrorist attack since 2019.

Following the incident, India took five steps against Pakistan in the wake of the attack on tourists in Pahalgam, Kashmir. The decisions were taken at a meeting of the union cabinet committee on security of India on Wednesday.

Pakistan's National Security Committee (NSC) meeting today, Thursday took several countermeasures in response to India's actions. The meeting was chaired by Pakistani prime minister Shahbaz Sharif. The decisions were announced in a statement sent by the Prime Minister's Office after the meeting.

Earlier, Pakistan foreign secretary Amna Baloch paid a visit to Dhaka. During that tour, the date for Ishak Dar’s visit to Bangladesh was announced.​

 

[Saif]

Bangladesh agrees in principle to aid corridor for Rakhine: Touhid

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Sunday said Bangladesh agreed in principle to provide a humanitarian corridor to Rakhine in line with UN proposal.

www.newagebd.net

Bangladesh agrees in principle to aid corridor for Rakhine: Touhid
United News of Bangladesh. Dhaka 28 April, 2025, 06:11

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Sunday said Bangladesh agreed in principle to provide a humanitarian corridor to Rakhine in line with a UN proposal.

The United Nations wants to create a humanitarian channel through Bangladesh to send humanitarian aid to Rakhine, and the interim government has agreed in principle to this subject to meeting some conditions.

‘Bangladesh has agreed in principle to provide a humanitarian channel to Rakhine as per the UN proposal. It will be a humanitarian passage. But we have some conditions. I will not go into details. If the conditions are met, we will definitely help,’ said Hossain.

Asked about the government’s position regarding contact with the Arakan Army, he said establishing contact with the Arakan Army becomes inevitable.

Though they are non-state actor, they have to contact them due to reality, and as they cannot contact them formally, informal contact was made, Hossain explained.​

 

[Saif]

Water wars are no answer

HISTORY is a tireless teacher. It reminds us that wars between India and Pakistan have only hardened enmities, deepened poverty, and imperilled the broader region’s stability. Today, as tensions mount once again over the Indus Waters Treaty, a sobering truth confronts both New Delhi and...

www.newagebd.net

Water wars are no answer
28 April, 2025, 00:00

The Indus does not belong to politicians or generals. It belongs to the farmers in Punjab, the families in Sindh, the fishermen near Karachi, and the communities in Kashmir who have lived along its banks for centuries, writes MA Hossain

HISTORY is a tireless teacher. It reminds us that wars between India and Pakistan have only hardened enmities, deepened poverty, and imperilled the broader region’s stability. Today, as tensions mount once again over the Indus Waters Treaty, a sobering truth confronts both New Delhi and Islamabad: peace is not an idealistic luxury — it is a survival imperative.

The immediate spark was a brutal and condemnable act: the killing of 26 Indian tourists in Kashmir on April 22, a grim reminder of the unresolved tensions in the region. India, furious and under intense domestic pressure, suspended its participation in the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty — a pact once hailed as a rare diplomatic triumph between two nuclear-armed rivals. Pakistan, equally predictably, warned that any attempt to obstruct the flow of water would constitute an ‘act of war’ meriting a full-force response.

The temptation to escalate is understandable, particularly in democracies where leaders are acutely sensitive to public anger. Yet history, geography, and basic prudence all demand a different course. In the cold calculus of realpolitik, neither side can afford to weaponise water. If anything, the perilous road they are now tempted to tread will lead not to victory, but to mutual impoverishment.

Fragile lifeline of Indus

THE Indus Waters Treaty has survived wars, political upheavals, and decades of bitter recriminations. Brokered by the World Bank in 1960 after years of arduous negotiations, the treaty divided the six rivers of the Indus Basin between the two countries. India was given control of the eastern tributaries — the Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej — while Pakistan retained rights to the western rivers — the Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab. Importantly, while India could use the western rivers for limited purposes like hydroelectric projects, it was prohibited from any consumptive use that would significantly diminish Pakistan’s flows.

That the treaty has endured for 65 years is not an accident. It is a testament to the fact that neither India nor Pakistan can afford the catastrophic consequences of disrupting the river system that sustains hundreds of millions of lives. Pakistan, in particular, relies on these waters for 80 per cent of its irrigated agriculture. To tamper with that supply would be to invite famine, mass displacement, and potentially, the collapse of a fragile state. For India, the risks are scarcely smaller: regional instability, international condemnation, and the not-so-distant prospect of full-scale war with a nuclear adversary.

Sabre-rattling and its limits

TECHNICALLY, as experts on both sides acknowledge, India does not currently possess the infrastructure necessary to significantly choke off the flow of the western rivers. Diverting or storing the massive volumes of the Indus and its tributaries would require the construction of enormous dams and canals across some of the most difficult terrain on Earth — a process that would take years, not weeks. Even if undertaken, such efforts would be politically costly and economically ruinous.

Yet the dangers lie less in immediate engineering feats than in the corrosive effects of escalation. India’s decision to suspend the treaty, although largely symbolic in the short term, undermines the spirit of a rules-based order that has kept the worst impulses of nationalism in check. It also sets a dangerous precedent that could rebound on India itself. After all, China holds the headwaters of the Brahmaputra River, vital to India’s northeast. If India chooses to treat international river agreements as disposable under pressure, why should it expect better from others?

Pakistan’s reaction, too, demands scrutiny. Its leaders have declared that any obstruction of the Indus waters would amount to an act of war, vowing to respond with ‘full force.’ This is a dangerous and reckless posture. By framing water flows as an existential trigger, Islamabad risks locking itself into a position where diplomacy becomes impossible and escalation inevitable. More measured voices should prevail, recognising that mutual interdependence on shared rivers is not a vulnerability — it is a lifeline.

Strengthening the treaty

THERE are, of course, longer-term challenges to the treaty that cannot be ignored. Climate change is rapidly altering weather patterns across the Himalayan region. Glaciers are melting at alarming rates, monsoon seasons are becoming more erratic, and the demands of swelling populations are placing unprecedented strains on water resources. Both India and Pakistan must adapt to a future where the current water-sharing arrangements will be under increasing pressure. But adaptation requires cooperation, not confrontation.

The immediate crisis offers both countries an opportunity to reframe their relationship around pragmatic coexistence rather than perpetual hostility. Instead of tearing down a 65-year-old framework, India and Pakistan should work to strengthen it—modernizing the dispute resolution mechanisms, enhancing information sharing, and establishing joint protocols for dealing with emergencies like floods or droughts. Such initiatives would not only reduce the risk of miscalculation but also demonstrate to their own populations and the world that both nations are capable of responsible leadership.

Narendra Modi, India’s prime minister, has famously declared, ‘Blood and water cannot flow together.’ It is a potent line, but one that must be applied with wisdom. Blood has already been spilled; adding the weaponisation of water would not redeem those deaths but compound the tragedy. The true tribute to the victims would be an unyielding commitment to peace, however difficult or imperfect it may be.

For Pakistan, too, there is a choice. Instead of viewing every Indian infrastructure project as an existential threat, it should invest in better water management, technological upgrades in agriculture, and diplomatic engagement that addresses legitimate concerns without turning every dispute into a casus belli.

True ownership of Indus

ULTIMATELY, the Indus does not belong to politicians or generals. It belongs to the farmers in Punjab, the families in Sindh, the fishermen near Karachi, and the communities in Kashmir who have lived along its banks for centuries. Their future should not be held hostage to the dangerous fantasies of those who mistake conflict for courage.

In a world increasingly defined by scarcity and competition, sharing water must be seen not as a concession but as an act of collective survival. There is no glory in turning rivers into weapons. There is only ruin.

MA Hossain, political and defence analyst based in Bangladesh.​

 

[Saif]

Bangladesh-Pakistan Business Forum launched

Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin on Monday urged business leaders from Bangladesh and Pakistan to come forward to achieve the desired trade goals relating to trade and investment between the two countries. "The Bangladesh-Pakistan Business Forum will play a crucial role in strengthening bilate

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Bangladesh-Pakistan Business Forum launched
UNB
Published :
Apr 28, 2025 22:07
Updated :
Apr 28, 2025 22:07

Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin on Monday urged business leaders from Bangladesh and Pakistan to come forward to achieve the desired trade goals relating to trade and investment between the two countries.

"The Bangladesh-Pakistan Business Forum will play a crucial role in strengthening bilateral trade relations and enhancing economic cooperation. This forum will serve as a platform for connecting business institutions and trade organisations from both countries, promoting trade, and exploring investment opportunities," he said.

The commerce adviser made the call while speaking at the inauguration of the Bangladesh-Pakistan Business Forum, held at the Intercontinental Hotel in Dhaka, as chief guest.

He also stressed the importance of increasing connectivity between the peoples of both countries.

The tariff and non-tariff barriers between Bangladesh and Pakistan should be discussed, and how to rationalise it must be found out," said the adviser.

Meanwhile, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) and the Pakistan Ready-Made Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PRGMEA) in a bid to strengthen bilateral trade between the two countries.

Administrator and Vice Chairman of the Bangladesh Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), Md. Anwar Hossain and Vice Chairman of PRGMEA, Amir Reyaz Chottani, signed the MoU on behalf of their respective sides.​