Dhaka: Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain today announced that Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar is expected to visit Dhaka in April. Hossain stated that while the exact date of the visit has not been finalized, discussions are in progress to ensure the visit takes place in April.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Touhid Hossain emphasized that there is no reason to maintain strained relations between Bangladesh and Pakistan. He mentioned that both sides are working on the arrangements for the visit and that there is still time to make decisions regarding the discussions that will take place.
Hossain addressed questions about whether Bangladesh would raise the issue of Pakistan’s apology for its role in 1971 and compensation for Bangladesh. He acknowledged the unresolved issues between the two countries but highlighted the need to focus on mutual interests rather than remaining fixated on past conflicts. Hossain asserted that Bangladesh aims to view its relationship with Pakistan in a neutral manner, similar to other countries.
He further noted that maritime connectivity between Bangladesh and Pakistan has resumed, offering economic benefits that both nations aim to maximize. Responding to queries about past relations, Hossain stated that previous actions by the Awami League-led government strained relations between the two countries, which did not benefit either side.