Pakistan, Bangladesh Sign Six Agreements, 1971 War Apology Remains Unresolved

During a historic visit to Dhaka by Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, the highest-level Pakistani engagement with Bangladesh since 2012, both countries sought to rebuild and strengthen bilateral relations. Bangladesh pressed Pakistan on unresolved issues from the 1971 Liberation War, including a formal apology for wartime atrocities, claims over assets, and the status of stranded Pakistani citizens, though Pakistan maintained these issues were addressed in previous talks. The visit resulted in the signing of one agreement and five memorandums of understanding covering trade, education, media, cultural cooperation, and diplomatic facilitation, including the launch of the Pakistan-Bangladesh Knowledge Corridor offering scholarships to Bangladeshi students. Trade between the two nations increased by 27% to $865 million in 2024-25, reflecting a mutual interest in economic cooperation. Both sides agreed that historical disputes require ongoing dialogue and that resolving these longstanding issues is essential to advancing their relationship. The diplomatic engagement signals a positive shift in ties, with hopes that enhanced partnership will contribute to regional stability and prosperity in South Asia.