Pakistan Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar to Visit Bangladesh in Early February 2024

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has announced plans to visit Bangladesh next month. This will be the first visit by a Pakistani minister since 2012. The announcement follows a meeting between Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Bangladesh's Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus at the D-8 Summit in Cairo last month.

Dar's upcoming trip marks the first visit by a Pakistani foreign minister to Dhaka in a decade. The last visit was by former Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar in 2012. Speaking at a press conference, Dar mentioned his likely visit to Bangladesh on or after February 5, following his return from Malaysia on February 3-5.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties

During the press conference, Dar emphasised the importance of rebuilding ties with Bangladesh, describing it as "like a lost brother." He expressed intentions to enhance economic and trade cooperation between the two nations. Dar also highlighted an invitation extended by Yunus and his Bangladeshi counterpart during their Cairo meeting.

The Express Tribune reported that Yunus accepted Pakistan's invitation to visit Islamabad at mutually agreed dates. The announcement of Dar's visit to Dhaka is seen as a significant development, indicating improving relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh after the change in government last August.

Historical Context and Recent Developments

Yunus assumed the role of Chief Adviser after Sheikh Hasina was removed from power on August 5 last year following student-led protests. Since then, there has been a noticeable improvement in bilateral relations. In mid-November, the first direct cargo vessel from Karachi arrived at Chittagong port, marking a significant step in trade relations. A second vessel docked in late December.

Bangladesh has also announced plans to resume direct flights to and from Pakistan soon. During their Cairo meeting, Sharif advocated for a strategic relationship with Dhaka, stating: "We are looking forward to strengthening our relationship with our brother-in-country Bangladesh."

Addressing Historical Issues

Despite these positive developments, historical issues remain unresolved. Bangladesh has urged Pakistan to address matters related to 1971 for future generations' benefit. Yunus stressed the need to settle these issues, saying: "The issues have kept coming again and again. Let's settle those issues for us to move forward."

Relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh were strained during Sheikh Hasina's 15-year tenure due to her alignment with India. The Express Tribune noted that she did not reciprocate Pakistan's attempts to mend ties. Meanwhile, The Business Standard reported that Bangladesh has repeatedly sought a public apology from Pakistan for the atrocities committed against unarmed Bengalis in 1971.

In February 2023, Bangladesh conveyed this message to Pakistan's then State Minister for Foreign Affairs as well. As both countries work towards improving relations, addressing these historical grievances remains crucial for lasting peace and cooperation.