Pakistan Offers Bangladesh Access To Karachi Port For Trade

Pakistan has reportedly offered Bangladesh access to the Karachi Port Trust. According to local media reports, the offer was extended during the Joint Economic Commission (JEC) between Islamabad and Dhaka.

This KEK was the first meeting of this kind in 20 years. Moreover, access to Karachi Port will help Bangladesh expand its trade network with China and other Central Asian countries.

What Does It Mean for Bangladesh?

The proposal is expected to facilitate trade to Bangladesh, Pakistan’s Samaa TV channel reported, citing an official statement.

Pakistan-Bangladesh Relations

General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, visiting Chairman of Pakistan Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC), paid a courtesy call on Bangladesh Chief Advisor Professor Muhammad Yunus at State Guest House Jamuna on Saturday.

According to ANI, Chief Advisor’s Press Wing said: “During the meeting, they discussed a wide range of issues concerning Bangladesh-Pakistan relations, including the growing importance of bilateral trade, investment and defense cooperation.”

“Highlighting the common historical, cultural and people-to-people ties between the two countries, General Mirza expressed Pakistan’s desire to strengthen cooperation in multiple sectors. He noted the huge potential for expanding trade, connectivity and investment between Bangladesh and Pakistan.”

“Our two countries will support each other,” General Mirza said, adding that the two-way shipping route between Karachi and Chittagong has already become operational, while the Dhaka-Karachi air route is expected to be opened within months.

Both sides underlined the need to reduce tensions in the Middle East and Europe. They exchanged views on the growing problem of misinformation and the misuse of social media by non-state actors to undermine peace and stability in various regions.

(with ANI entries)