Cairo (TDI): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif met with the Chief Adviser of Bangladesh, Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus on the sidelines of the D-8 Summit on Thursday.
The meeting, held in a cordial atmosphere, underscore the strong fraternal ties between the two nations.
The Prime Minister emphasized the historical, religious and cultural linkages between Pakistan and Bangladesh.
He expressed Pakistan’s keen desire to strengthen bilateral cooperation, especially in the areas of trade, people-to-people contacts and cultural exchanges.
Also Read: Saudi Shura Council Chief Calls on PM Shehbaz
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized on the need to make joint efforts to explore new avenues of economic cooperation and to take advantage of great potential to increase trade in sectors such as cement clinkers, chemicals, surgical goods, leather poducts and IT sector.
He expressed his gratitude to Bangladesh for the recent measures taken for facilitation of trade and travel between the two countries.
This includes waiving off the condition of 100 percent physical inspection of the consignments from Pakistan and abolishment of special security desk at the Dhaka airport earlier set up to scrutinize Pakistani passengers.
Recent Steps in Bilateral Ties Appreciated
Prime Minister also thanked Bangladesh government for doing away with additional clearance requirement for Pakistani visa applicants.
The two leaders expressed satisfaction over recent positive developments in bilateral ties and growing frequency of high-level engagements.
Also Read: PM Arrives in Cairo As Pakistan Calls for Peace in ME
They agreed to expand bilateral cooperation in all areas of mutual interest.
They also stressed on the need to align efforts to achieve mutually-beneficial development objectives.
The two leaders acknowledged significance of people-to-people contacts and cultural exchanges including increased exchange of artists, sportspersons, academics, and students etc.
They noted with satisfaction the recent trip by the Bangladesh Cricket Team to Pakistan and concert of Pakistani artist in Dhaka.
Both sides agreed to forge greater cooperation at ifferent multilateral fora, including D-8.
