PESHAWAR: Bangladesh High Commissioner to Pakistan Mohammad Iqbal Hussain Khan has emphasised the deep-rooted ties between Islamabad and Dhaka, expressing his country’s desire to initiate direct flights between the two nations.

He made these remarks during his visit to the Peshawar Press Club, where he congratulated the newly-elected cabinet and governing body members.

Mr Khan highlighted the potential for cooperation in various sectors, including tourism, education and industry. He noted that Bangladesh was keen to invest in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, particularly in the industrial sector, and that there was a growing demand for Bangladeshi products in Pakistan.

The envoy also touched upon the strong military ties between the two countries, with Bangladesh participating in joint military exercises with Pakistan. He expressed his country’s interest in strengthening these ties further.

Expresses desire to have direct flights between Dhaka, Islamabad

The Bangladeshi envoy’s visit to Peshawar Press Club was seen as a significant gesture, as he acknowledged the importance of freedom of expression and the role of the media in promoting people-to-people contacts between the two nations.

In his remarks, the envoy also highlighted the need for increased cooperation between Pakistan and Bangladesh in various fields, including trade, commerce and culture. He expressed his optimism about the future of bilateral relations, citing the growing demand for direct flights between the two countries.

Peshawar Press Club president M Riaz, and Khyber Union of Journalists president Kashifuddin Syed were also present.

During his visit to China Window, a Chinese cultural and information centre in the provincial capital, the Bangladesh envoy underscored the importance of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) as a pivotal project for global connectivity and economic prosperity. He stated that the BRI would serve as a milestone in fostering trade and financial development by linking countries through extensive road networks.

He emphasised the longstanding and friendly relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh and noted that both the countries were on a steady path of development and encouraged mutual investment in various sectors, particularly trade and industry.

“There are vast opportunities for investors from both nations, and I believe they should seize these opportunities for mutual benefit,” he said.

Mr Khan stated his delight in visiting Peshawar, highlighting its rich cultural heritage and economic potential.

During his visit to the Institute of Management Sciences in the provincial capital, Mr Khan told students that following the youth-driven revolution, the country achieved remarkable stability and economic growth. “Bangladesh is now on the road to success, and we are committed to strengthening regional cooperation with our neighbouring countries,” he said.

Published in Dawn, January 26th, 2025