Dhaka – Bangladesh and Pakistan have finalized an agreement allowing visa-free entry for diplomatic and official passport holders, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations.
Agreement Gains Final Approval
The Chief Adviser’s Advisory Council Committee approved the policy and the final agreement during a meeting held at the Chief Adviser’s Office in Tejgaon on Thursday morning. The agreement will enable holders of diplomatic and official passports from both countries to travel without a visa.
Shafiqul Alam, Press Secretary to Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, confirmed the decision at a press briefing at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka.
“Bangladesh has signed the agreement with Pakistan for the next five years. This is a routine matter,” Shafiqul stated.
31 Countries Now Under Similar Agreement
Bangladesh previously signed similar agreements with 30 other countries. With Pakistan’s inclusion, the total number has reached 31.
“This agreement is consistent with Bangladesh’s approach to enhancing diplomatic engagement,” Shafiqul said.
Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Azad Majumder added that the Pakistan government had already approved the deal. Assistant Press Secretary Foyez Ahammad was also present at the briefing.
Scope and Implementation
The agreement applies exclusively to holders of diplomatic and official passports. It does not extend to ordinary passport holders. The arrangement will remain valid for five years, after which both nations may review or renew the agreement.
Officials emphasized that such agreements aim to facilitate easier diplomatic interaction, promote bilateral visits, and boost government-level cooperation between Dhaka and Islamabad.
Context and Future Engagements
The approval comes ahead of the expected visit of Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister to Dhaka, where discussions on trade, connectivity, and cultural exchange are on the agenda. Both nations are expected to explore further agreements to strengthen ties in the coming months.
The initiative highlights an effort to normalize and enhance relations between Bangladesh and Pakistan after years of limited engagement.
