FOREIGN Secretary Amna Baloch’s trip to Dhaka has breathed new life into Pakistan’s long-dormant relationship with Bangladesh. Talks were held after a diplomatic pause of 15 years in a cordial atmosphere. For too long, ties had been icy, particularly under the ousted Awami League government of Sheikh Hasina, which was closely aligned with New Delhi and maintained a distance from Islamabad. With a different administration in Dhaka, the space has opened up for Pakistan and Bangladesh to turn a new page. A number of topics were discussed at Thursday’s meeting. The two sides welcomed the launch of direct shipping between Karachi and Chittagong and underscored the need to resume direct air links, facilitate visas and deepen trade. These steps are essential to rebuilding trust and improving people-to-people contact. Pakistan offered academic opportunities in agriculture, while Bangladesh extended technical training in fisheries and maritime studies. The two also explored enhanced cultural and media cooperation, including performances and artist exchanges.

During the consultations, Dhaka reportedly reiterated its long-standing demand for an apology for the events of 1971. While the Foreign Office acknowledged that “outstanding issues” were discussed, it emphasised that both sides expressed their respective positions respectfully. Pakistan has previously shown willingness to engage on this front — with then president Pervez Musharraf having expressed regret during his 2002 visit to Dhaka over the “excesses” of that period. Still, such issues — however sensitive — should not stand in the way of renewed cooperation. In fact, they can be addressed through continued dialogue. Islamabad must remain open to such conversations, even as it seeks to advance broader ties. There is already progress to build on: direct private trade resumed last November after decades of interruption, and government-to-government imports followed soon after. High-level contacts, including at the D-8 summit and through telephone exchanges between leaders, indicate a mutual willingness to move forward. As the region grapples with shifting alliances and economic uncertainty, stronger ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh serve both nations. Increased trade, academic collaboration and people-to-people exchanges — including scholarship opportunities and cultural engagement — must be prioritised. This is a relationship that deserves far more attention than it has received in recent years. The foundations for reconciliation have been laid. It is time to build upon them.

Published in Dawn, April 21st, 2025