Pakistan FM Makes Highest-Level Visit to Dhaka Since 2012 Amid Trade Cooperation Plans

Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar arrived in Dhaka for a landmark two-day visit, marking the highest-level Pakistani official visit since 2012 and the first state visit in 13 years. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations amid shifting regional dynamics, including strained Bangladesh-India ties following the ouster of Sheikh Hasina, who was pro-India. Pakistan and Bangladesh are expected to sign multiple agreements covering trade, culture, media, training, and travel, while discussions will also include regional, international issues, and the longstanding 1971 war legacy. The two countries have already expanded economic cooperation with sea trade started last year and plans to initiate direct flights between Dhaka and Karachi. Dar held meetings with Bangladesh's interim leader Muhammad Yunus, foreign affairs adviser Touhid Hossain, commerce adviser Sheikh Bashiruddin, and political parties including the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami. Pakistan views the visit as a historic milestone to reset and advance cooperative relations with Bangladesh based on mutual respect and benefit.