Islamabad: Pakistan has extended an offer to Bangladesh for the use of Karachi Port to enhance its trade with regional countries, including China and the Central Asian states. This significant proposal was made during the 9th Pak-Bangladesh Joint Economic Commission meeting held in Dhaka.
According to Radio Pakistan, the meeting was co-chaired by Pakistan’s Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervez Malik and Bangladesh’s Adviser on Finance Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed, marking a crucial step in strengthening bilateral economic and development cooperation. The commission emphasized enhancing collaboration between the national shipping corporations of both countries, highlighting the importance of maritime connectivity.
A notable outcome of the meeting was the agreement to expedite efforts to initiate direct flights between Pakistan and Bangladesh, aiming to foster greater people-to-people contact and boost tourism. Additionally, the establishment of a Pak-Bangladesh Knowledge Corridor was proposed, which includes offering 500 fully funded scholarships for Bangladeshi students in Pakistan, underscoring a commitment to educational cooperation.
Both countries expressed their intent to strengthen ties across various sectors, including trade, investment, energy, climate change, IT, agriculture, transport, education, health, tourism, information and broadcasting, textile, medical, and religious tourism. In a move to enhance technical cooperation, Pakistan has agreed to increase the number of training seats under the Pakistan Technical Assistance Program from 5 to 25.
Further solidifying trade relations, the Pakistan Halal Authority and the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institute signed a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in halal trade. This agreement is expected to bolster collaboration in the quality and certification of halal products, paving the way for increased trade in this sector.
Speaking during the occasion, Ali Pervez Malik highlighted the friendly relationship between Pakistan and Bangladesh, based on mutual respect and cooperation. Concluding the meeting, both countries signed the agreed minutes of the 9th meeting of the Joint Economic Commission, signaling a commitment to work together for mutual benefit.
