Focus on health, education, air connectivity and trade as Dhaka-Islamabad relations gain momentum

Special Correspondent: High Commissioner of Pakistan to Bangladesh Mr. Imran Haider on Saturday paid a courtesy call on Hon’ble President of Bangladesh Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir at Bangabhaban.

The meeting focused on the positive momentum in bilateral relations and ways to expand multifaceted cooperation between the two countries.

Welcoming the High Commissioner, the President conveyed his thanks to President of Pakistan Mr. Asif Ali Zardari for the felicitation message on his assumption of office. Responding to an invitation from the President to visit Pakistan, the High Commissioner said he would like to undertake the visit at the earliest convenience.

Recalling the shared history, common faith, and cultural and familial affinities between the people of Pakistan and Bangladesh, the President said these bonds provide a strong foundation to enhance mutually beneficial collaboration across a wide range of sectors.

He expressed satisfaction over the upward trajectory in cooperation, particularly in health, science and technology, culture, and people-to-people exchanges. Other areas discussed included pharmaceuticals, ceramics and agriculture.

Briefing the President, High Commissioner Haider said medical tourism from Bangladesh to Pakistan is on the rise. He noted that Pakistani health professionals are currently training Bangladeshi doctors in organ transplantation to help build domestic capacity and reduce treatment costs for Bangladeshi patients.

On education, the High Commissioner said around 200 Bangladeshi students have enrolled in top-ranking Pakistani universities under the Pakistan-Bangladesh Knowledge Corridor. Training courses for Bangladeshi civil servants are also being organized.

The issue of direct air connectivity also came up. The High Commissioner highlighted growing demand for increased flight frequencies and the opening of additional routes. The President observed that enhanced connectivity is crucial to boost business, cultural and people-to-people contacts.

The High Commissioner added that there is huge untapped potential for bilateral cooperation which can be realized through concerted efforts by both sides. He reaffirmed the commitment of Pakistan’s leadership to expand cooperation with Bangladesh in all areas of mutual interest.

Both sides agreed to build on the existing momentum and further strengthen bilateral ties through closer and sustained engagement.

The meeting was held in a cordial atmosphere.