Pakistan’s Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has called for stronger bilateral ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh, highlighting shared history, cultural affinity, and familial connections as the foundation of their relationship.

The remarks came during a meeting in Islamabad with Dr AFM Khalid Hossain, Religious Affairs Adviser of Bangladesh. Dr Hossain was accompanied by Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to Pakistan, Md Iqbal Hossain Khan.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif warmly welcomed the delegation, expressing satisfaction over the positive trajectory of bilateral ties — particularly in areas such as people-to-people contact, educational exchanges, trade, and economic cooperation. 

He emphasised that the relationship between the two South Asian nations should be deepened further.

Recalling previous meetings in New York and Cairo, the Prime Minister praised the visionary leadership of Chief Adviser Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus and his efforts in poverty alleviation. He also lauded the commitment from both sides to enhancing bilateral relations.

Dr Khalid Hossain expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Sharif for the warm hospitality and reiterated that the brotherly relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh are rooted in shared beliefs and historical bonds. 

He also handed over a letter from Chief Adviser Dr Yunus expressing condolences over the recent loss of life caused by floods in Pakistan and confirming the provision of humanitarian assistance from Bangladesh.

During the discussion, both parties explored the possibility of resuming direct air connectivity between the two countries in the near future.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif voiced hope that both nations would maintain the current momentum in bilateral relations through continued high-level exchanges. 

He reiterated an invitation to Dr Yunus to undertake an official visit to Pakistan at a convenient time. In turn, the Bangladeshi side extended an invitation for the Prime Minister of Pakistan to visit Bangladesh on behalf of Dr Yunus and the government of Bangladesh.

SMS/