Pakistan, Bangladesh Agree on Trade, Education, and Energy Cooperation After Two-Decade Gap

Pakistan has extended an offer to Bangladesh to use Karachi Port as a trade gateway for improved access to China and Central Asian markets. The proposal came during the first Pakistan-Bangladesh Joint Economic Commission meeting held after a 20-year gap, marking a renewed effort to strengthen bilateral economic and developmental ties.

Both countries agreed to enhance cooperation in several key sectors, including maritime shipping, direct air connectivity, education, and technical training. As part of the new initiatives, Pakistan announced 500 fully funded scholarships for Bangladeshi students and increased technical training seats from 5 to 25, reflecting its commitment to building people-to-people and institutional linkages.

In addition, the two nations signed multiple agreements covering halal certification, trade facilitation, renewable energy, information technology, agriculture, tourism, and healthcare collaboration. Officials emphasized that this renewed engagement aims to diversify regional trade routes, promote investment, and foster greater economic integration between South and Central Asia.