Ahsan Iqbal Invites Bangladesh PM to Strengthen Bilateral Ties and Regional Cooperation

Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, met Bangladesh’s newly elected Prime Minister, Tarique Rahman, in Dhaka on Tuesday. The meeting followed Rahman’s oath-taking ceremony, where Iqbal also extended warm congratulations on his election. The minister formally invited Rahman to visit Pakistan at a mutually convenient time to strengthen bilateral cooperation.

During the meeting, both leaders explored ways to enhance Pakistan-Bangladesh relations and promote regional collaboration. Iqbal emphasized the revival of SAARC to improve regional connectivity and create a shared geo-economic vision for South Asia. He noted that past conflicts have limited integration in the region, making collaboration crucial.

Iqbals also proposed establishing a “Pakistan–Bangladesh Knowledge Corridor” to boost academic, research, and technological exchanges. He informed the Bangladeshi prime minister that Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission would work on twin-university agreements and facilitate student and faculty exchanges. So far, 75 Bangladeshi students are enrolled in Pakistani institutions, with 500 scholarships allocated for future students.

The discussion also covered institutional collaboration between Pakistan and Bangladesh, including bodies like NADRA and the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics. Both sides agreed to share expertise in data systems, digital governance, and capacity building. Trade and business opportunities were explored, focusing on SMEs, cottage industries, and improved connectivity through direct flights.

In addition, Iqbal suggested reviving the Iqbal Academy and organizing joint celebrations for the 150th birth anniversary of Allama Muhammad Iqbal next year. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral ties and promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.