Pakistan is keen to further strengthen its bilateral relationship with Bangladesh, Defence Minister Khawja Muhammad Asif has said, emphasising the deep bond of affection between the peoples of the two countries.
The minister’s remarks were reported by Pakistani news outlet Geo News on Saturday (26 April).
Speaking as chief guest at a reception in Islamabad to mark Bangladesh’s 54th National and Independence Day, Khawja Asif underlined the sincere efforts of both capitals to enhance economic, political and cultural cooperation.
The event was hosted by Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to Pakistan, Mohammad Iqbal Hossain Khan, and his wife Rowshan Nahid.
"We deeply value our relationship with Bangladesh and are eager to expand our cooperation across various sectors," said Asif, extending greetings to the Government and people of Bangladesh on the occasion.
The defence minister also praised Bangladesh’s social and economic progress and stressed the importance of reinforcing the historic ties between the two nations.
He noted that the cultural and historical bonds shared by Pakistan and Bangladesh have brought the two countries closer.
High Commissioner Mohammad Iqbal Hossain Khan - who recently returned from Dhaka after participating in diplomatic talks led by Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch, the first such engagement in 15 years - hosted the reception for the first time to commemorate Bangladesh’s National Day.
Expressing delight at the turnout of distinguished guests, Khan reiterated Bangladesh’s commitment to maintaining strong and friendly relations with Pakistan.
In his address, the high commissioner highlighted Bangladesh’s natural beauty and renowned hospitality, and called for greater mutual understanding and cooperation.
Among the prominent attendees were Federal Ministers Professor Ahsan Iqbal Chaudhry, Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, Moeen Wattoo, Ham Kamal, Khalid Das Kohistani, Malik Rasheed Ahmad, Qaiser Ahmad Sheikh, and Mohammad Junaid Anwar.
Members of the diplomatic corps, civil society, media, and the business community were also present, lending a vibrant atmosphere to the gathering.
Traditional Bangladeshi delicacies, including Bengali rasgulla and bekti fish, were served, further enlivening the occasion.
In a poignant moment, High Commissioner Khan paid deep tribute to Bangladesh’s freedom fighters and honoured the contributions of those who participated in the popular movements of 2024.
He emphasised the necessity of deepening mutual relations to fulfil the aspirations of the two peoples.
The reception commenced with the national anthems of both nations and culminated with the ceremonial cake-cutting by the chief guest, the High Commissioner, and other distinguished guests.
