Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin on Thursday said Bangladesh is set to sign several trade agreements with Pakistan to enhance bilateral cooperation.
The adviser made the announcement during a press conference held at the Secretariat.
The announcement followed a meeting between the adviser and visiting Pakistani Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan, during which both parties engaged in open discussions to boost trade.
“We want to work together in food and agricultural development,” said the adviser. “Discussions included importing and exporting fruits, particularly pineapples, and seeking Pakistan’s support in boosting local sugar production. They have responded positively to all proposals.”
The adviser also mentioned Bangladesh’s request for the removal of the anti-dumping tax imposed by Pakistan on hydrogen peroxide imports, expressing optimism about a favourable outcome.
In addition, Bangladesh has announced a duty-free export of 10 million kg of tea to the Pakistani market.
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The Pakistan Commerce Minister will remain in Dhaka for three more days to continue talks, with several agreements expected to be signed during the visit.
Bashir Uddin said they are also looking to establish a Trade and Investment Commission between the two countries.
He emphasised the untapped business potential between Bangladesh and Pakistan.
When asked whether closer trade ties with Pakistan might strain relations with India, the adviser declined to comment, stating, “Please ask the Foreign Affairs Adviser. We are focused on national interest and boosting our trade capabilities.”
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Regarding 1971 issues, Bashir Uddin said the topic did not come up in discussions.
Commerce Secretary Tapan Kanti Ghosh said that trade between the two countries had been minimal for nearly 15 years.
Pakistan has shown a renewed interest, and we see no barriers to expanding trade, he said.
“Currently, we import more than we export to Pakistan. Our goal is to reverse that trend and create a more balanced and beneficial trade relationship,” he added.
Pakistan High Commissioner to Bangladesh Imran Haider, Political Counsellor Kamran Dhangal, Trade and Investment Representative Zain Aziz, and Trade Assistant Waqas Yasin, were also present.