ISLAMABAD: Bangladesh’s Adviser on Religious Affairs, Dr. A. F. M. Khalid Hossain, met with Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad, signaling a continued commitment to enhancing the relationship between the two nations. The meeting focused on shared cultural and historical connections and the potential for increased cooperation.

The Prime Minister, accompanied by Mr. Md Iqbal Hussain Khan, the High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Pakistan, expressed appreciation for the positive direction of bilateral relations. He emphasized the importance of strengthening ties through increased people-to-people contacts, academic exchanges, and economic collaboration.

Reflecting on past meetings, Prime Minister Sharif praised the leadership of Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, noting his contributions to poverty alleviation and efforts to bolster ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh.

Dr. Hossain, in turn, expressed gratitude for the warm reception and highlighted the enduring bond between the two countries, rooted in historical connections and shared faith. He also delivered a letter from Professor Yunus, offering condolences for recent flood losses in Pakistan and extending an offer of relief assistance.

The discussion also covered the potential resumption of direct flights between the nations, which both leaders viewed as a strategic move to enhance bilateral relations.

The Prime Minister expressed optimism about future high-level exchanges and reiterated an invitation for Professor Yunus to visit Pakistan. An invitation was also extended to Prime Minister Sharif to visit Bangladesh, underscoring the mutual interest in maintaining the current momentum in their bilateral relationship.