Istanbul- June 22, 2025: Pakistan and Bangladesh renewed their shared commitment to regional connectivity during a high-level meeting on the sidelines of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM). The Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan, Makhdoom Ishaq Dar, met with H.E. Touhid Ahmad, Adviser on Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh. Both sides agreed to deepen ties across political, economic, and cultural dimensions.
The conversation highlighted the importance of sustained political dialogue and mutual cooperation in regional and multilateral settings. Adviser Touhid welcomed Pakistan’s efforts to engage meaningfully, acknowledging that bilateral ties had matured through open and constructive engagement.
DPM Dar appreciated Bangladesh’s continued support and acknowledged the efforts to broaden cooperation. Both parties emphasized the shared goal of promoting peace, prosperity, and people-centric growth in South Asia.
Upcoming Visit and Trilateral Cooperation
Adviser Touhid renewed an earlier invitation for Dar to visit Dhaka. The Deputy Prime Minister confirmed that the visit would happen soon, regretting the earlier postponement due to unforeseen regional developments. The visit is expected to accelerate efforts under the recently proposed Pakistan–Bangladesh–China Trilateral Cooperation Framework.
This trilateral approach aims to streamline trade routes, improve infrastructure links, and promote technology and academic exchanges. With Bangladesh’s strong presence in South Asia and Pakistan’s geostrategic leverage, leaders from both countries see this as a transformative opportunity.
The meeting also discussed plans to increase engagement at global platforms like the UN, ECO, and SAARC. Both leaders underscored the significance of strengthening cultural and youth exchanges to build long-term people-to-people connections.
The focus on regional connectivity not only aims to enhance diplomatic relations but also reflects both nations’ intent to build inclusive economic pathways. With shared values and mutual respect, Pakistan and Bangladesh are taking practical steps to reposition South Asia as a hub of cooperation and innovation.
