Dhaka, Aug 24 (V7N) – Bangladesh is aiming for normal diplomatic and economic relations with Pakistan, while maintaining its firm stance on historical issues, Foreign Affairs Advisor Md. Towhid Hossain said after a bilateral meeting with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Sunday (August 24).

Hossain noted that during the previous government, relations with Pakistan were deliberately put on hold, but now Bangladesh seeks normal relations with Pakistan, just as it does with other countries.

Responding to Dar’s remarks that the 1971 issues had been resolved twice, Hossain said:

“Bangladesh did not agree. If we had, all problems would have been resolved. Our position is clear: we want accounting, resolution of the money issue, and for Pakistan to express regret and apologize for the genocide.”

The meeting also covered health-related issues and explored opportunities to expand trade and investment. Hossain highlighted that Bangladesh’s total trade with Pakistan is less than one billion dollars, and both sides expressed interest in increasing bilateral trade. Bangladesh requested market access under SAFTA, particularly in textiles, energy, pharmaceuticals, agricultural products, and information technology, while also discussing cooperation in agriculture, fisheries, livestock, and energy exports.

The discussions included improving transport, communication, and shipping via Chittagong Port, as well as promoting ties in education, culture, and sports.

Global humanitarian concerns such as the ongoing Gaza conflict and the Rohingya crisis in Myanmar were also discussed, with both countries emphasizing that the Rohingya should return home safely.

The meeting concluded with the signing of one agreement and five memorandums of understanding, marking a step toward strengthening cooperation between Bangladesh and Pakistan.

END/SMA/AJ