Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus stressed on Sunday the need to reinvigorate all possible channels of regional and bilateral collaboration, calling for advancements in mutual trade and underscoring the significance of interpersonal bonds, especially among younger generations.
“I encourage SAARC, and I see our relationship with Pakistan and other SAARC countries as one of the highest priorities,” he remarked during a courtesy visit by Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar at state guesthouse Jamuna.
The officials talked about reinforcing bilateral relations, expanding commerce, promoting youth exchanges, broadening educational and cultural ties, and reenergising regional partnership via SAARC.
Deputy Prime Minister Dar relayed salutations from Pakistan’s Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif. “Our Prime Minister sends you his best wishes,” he stated.
Professor Yunus responded cordially, reminiscing about previous interactions with Prime Minister Sharif, as reported by the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing.
“Every time Prime Minister Sharif and I met, we spoke about SAARC. Our visions are aligned, and SAARC remains a top priority for both of us,” the chief adviser said, while also sending his regards to the prime minister and citizens of Pakistan.
Highlighting potential for joint efforts and stronger trade relations, Deputy Prime Minister Dar commented, “I feel our two economies are complementary. There are many areas where we can work together.”
He also commended Professor Yunus’s efforts in reducing poverty and empowering communities, noting, “Bangladesh is fortunate to have a head of government like you, a leader who inspires the world.”
The deputy PM also engaged in talks with multiple advisers, including those the energy and commerce, and met with representatives from various political parties.
Conversations included rejuvenating historical ties, encouraging youth engagement, improving connectivity, and increasing trade and economic cooperation, according to the Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Recent regional changes and the potential for regional collaboration were also part of the discussions.
Dar also expressed gratitude to Yunus for the excellent visit arrangements and the generous hospitality shown to him and his team.
While recognising that certain delicate matters persist, Yunus pointed to various cooperative domains, including regular cultural interactions.
“When Pakistani singers perform in Bangladesh, everyone appreciates their talent. That is the spirit we must build upon,” he affirmed.
Deputy Prime Minister Dar, the first Pakistani foreign minister to travel to Bangladesh in 13 years, mentioned that work is in progress to enhance connectivity, covering shipping and air travel.
“By October, we hope Fly Jinnah will launch direct flights between our two countries. The PIA is also expected to launch direct flights to Dhaka once the airlines is privatised,” he shared.
Both leaders voiced hope that increased trade, richer cultural interchange, and regional cooperation would foster a steadier and more flourishing South Asia.
Also present at the meeting was the Chief Adviser’s Special Envoy for International Affairs Lutfey Siddiqi.