Bangladesh and Pakistan are poised to establish direct air connectivity, with flights between the two countries expected to commence later this year.
The initiative aims to bolster bilateral trade and facilitate easier travel, while discussions are also underway to address visa complexities.
Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to Pakistan, Iqbal Hossain, announced the plan for direct flights, expressing confidence that the move would further strengthen diplomatic and economic ties.
According to a report by Pakistan’s Express Tribune on Sunday (26 January), the announcement was made during a press briefing in Peshawar, the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. S
peaking at the event, the High Commissioner underscored the deep-rooted historical ties between the two nations and reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to enhancing travel and communication links.
He emphasised that direct flights would not only benefit trade but also foster cooperation in tourism, education, and various other sectors.
Highlighting the growing commercial and diplomatic engagements between the two countries, he expressed optimism about further strengthening these ties.
Iqbal Hossain also reiterated Bangladesh’s commitment to freedom of expression, citing the role of social media in empowering the younger generation to voice their rights, which he described as a key component of the country’s robust culture of free speech.
Additionally, he highlighted investment opportunities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, particularly in the healthcare and industrial sectors, and pointed to the increasing demand for Bangladeshi products in Pakistan.
He also noted that bilateral trade is already underway via a shipping route linking Chattogram and Karachi.
The high commissioner touched upon Bangladesh’s upcoming elections, reaffirming the country’s primary focus on economic development.
He also commended Pakistan’s air force for its exceptional capabilities in the defence sector.
With both nations now looking to bridge geographical barriers through direct flights, this initiative signals a potential new chapter in Bangladesh-Pakistan relations.
