Pakistan's Finance Minister Ishaq Dar and former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Khaleda Zia, held talks focusing on establishing amicable relations between Bangladesh and Pakistan.

Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister Visits Bangladesh, Discusses Bilateral Ties and Saarc

Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, paid a visit to Bangladesh on August 24, 2023, marking a significant diplomatic event. Upon his arrival at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, he was received by Bangladesh's Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam.

Later in the day, Dar visited the residence of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia in Gulshan. Accompanied by BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Zahid, Dar arrived at Khaleda's residence around 6:15 pm. The meeting took place at 6:56 pm at Feroza, Khaleda's residence.

The discussions between Khaleda and Dar focused on the normalisation of Bangladesh-Pakistan bilateral relations and working jointly in international forums. Both sides expressed hope for revitalising the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc).

Madam Khaleda Zia, during the meeting, recalled her memories related to Saarc. She also inquired about the flood situation in Pakistan, to which Dar conveyed greetings on behalf of Pakistan's President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, and the people of Pakistan.

The talks between the two parties also covered matters of mutual interest between the two countries. The ongoing political situation in Bangladesh was not a topic of discussion during the meeting.

After the meeting, BNP Standing Committee member Dr AZM Zahid Hossain spoke to reporters, reflecting the hope that the visit signifies a positive step towards a healthy political environment in the coming days. The Pakistani side also expressed hope that Bangladesh is heading toward elections.

Dar's visit to Bangladesh comes at a time when regional cooperation is crucial, and the revitalisation of Saarc could play a significant role in fostering peace and prosperity in the South Asian region. The visit is expected to further strengthen the bilateral ties between Bangladesh and Pakistan.

Pakistan's Finance Minister Ishaq Dar and former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Khaleda Zia, held talks focusing on establishing amicable relations between Bangladesh and Pakistan.