Bangladesh-Pakistan to hold political dialogue after over a decade

After more than a decade Bangladesh and Pakistan are set to revive formal political dialogue later this month, marking a significant step toward rebuilding bilateral relations. The last such engagement between the two countries occurred in 2012.

According to a report by Daily Pakistan published on April 5, the renewed discussions aim to establish a structured framework for long-term cooperation across multiple sectors.
This diplomatic initiative reflects growing interest from both Dhaka and Islamabad in mending and strengthening ties. The upcoming talks are expected to focus on institutionalizing the relationship and identifying potential areas for collaboration in political, economic, and social spheres.
Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary, Amna Baloch, will lead the Pakistani delegation. Although Bangladesh has not yet officially named its representative, sources indicate that high-level officials are likely to participate in the discussions.
Key topics on the agenda include revitalizing diplomatic engagement, reactivating the dormant Joint Ministerial Commission, and developing a mechanism for ongoing cooperation on bilateral and regional issues.
In a related development, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister, Ishaq Dar, is scheduled to visit Bangladesh from April 22 to 24. His visit is seen as a pivotal moment for deepening economic ties and advancing dialogue on trade, security, and strategic affairs.
This renewed diplomatic momentum comes amid a shift in Bangladesh’s foreign policy landscape. Following the political upheaval on August 5 last year, which led to the departure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the interim government has signaled a strategic pivot—focusing on closer cooperation with regional players like Pakistan and China, particularly in the fields of defense and commerce.