Interim government Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Tuesday called for the revival of SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) for enhanced regional cooperation in an effort to boost the economies.

He said SAARC could be a model of regional relationships like the European Union. “We must work together for mutual benefits,” Chief Adviser’s press wing quoted Prof Yunus as saying when High Commissioner of Pakistan to Bangladesh, Syed Ahmed Maroof, had a courtesy meeting with the Chief Adviser.

Adviser Ali Imam Majumder and principal coordinator for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) affairs Lamiya Morshed, among others, were present at the meeting held at state guesthouse Jamuna.

During the meeting held at the state guesthouse Jamuna, the Pakistan envoy underscored the necessity for reinvigorating the trade and economic relations and people to people contacts between the two countries.

He expressed willingness and emphasised the importance for strengthening bilateral relations as well as cooperation at multilateral platforms.

During the meeting, the High Commissioner conveyed that Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the people of the country were deeply perturbed by the devastation caused by the ongoing floods in Bangladesh. He said Pakistan stands ready to assist Bangladesh.

The Pakistan High Commissioner requested easing visa procedures for Pakistani citizens and direct flights between the two countries.

He highlighted the necessity for increased engagement on the existing bilateral mechanism between the two countries.

The envoy also congratulated Bangladesh on its national cricket team’s maiden Test victory against Pakistan in Rawalpindi.