In the first high-level bilateral meeting in 15 years, Bangladesh has formally urged Pakistan to issue a public apology for the 1971 genocide and to settle outstanding financial claims, including a demand for $4.32 billion.
The meeting coincided with the historic Mujibnagar Day (April 17) — the day when Bangladesh’s provisional government in exile was formed in 1971, following the declaration of independence from Pakistan on March 26.
The two nations met on Thursday for Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) at the State Guest House Padma in Dhaka, led by Bangladesh’s Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin and Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch.
“We emphasised the need to resolve these unsettled historical issues to lay a solid foundation for future relations,” Jashim Uddin told reporters, referring to the 1971 atrocities committed by the then Pakistani military, the repatriation of stranded Pakistanis, and foreign aid funds meant for cyclone victims.
Pakistan reportedly assured Bangladesh of its willingness to stay engaged on the issues. However, no public comment was made by the Pakistani side following the talks.
The FOC also covered cooperation in trade, agriculture, education, climate action, and cultural exchange. Direct shipping routes have recently opened, and both sides expressed hope to resume direct flights soon.
As part of the renewed engagement, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar is expected to visit Dhaka on April 27–28, marking the first such visit in over a decade.
The consultations also touched on regional cooperation under SAARC and support for the safe repatriation of Rohingya refugees to Myanmar.
Bangladesh reiterated its commitment to building forward-looking ties but stressed that unresolved historical grievances cannot be overlooked.