Chief Adviser underscores need to revitalise SAARC in talks with Pakistan’s deputy prime minister

Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar paid a courtesy call on Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus at the state guest house Jamuna in Dhaka on Sunday.

Their discussions centred on strengthening bilateral relations, boosting trade, expanding youth-to-youth, educational, and cultural exchanges, and revitalising regional cooperation through SAARC.

Dar conveyed greetings from Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, saying, “Our prime minister sends you his best wishes.” Yunus warmly reciprocated, recalling his past exchanges with Sharif. “Every time Prime Minister Sharif and I met, we spoke about SAARC. Our visions are aligned, and SAARC remains a top priority for both of us,” he said, extending greetings to Sharif and the people of Pakistan.

Highlighting opportunities for economic collaboration, Dar remarked, “I feel our two economies are complementary. There are many areas where we can work together.” He also commended Yunus’ global leadership in poverty alleviation and social empowerment, saying, “Bangladesh is fortunate to have a head of government like you — a leader who inspires the world.”

During his Dhaka visit, Dar also held talks with advisers on energy and commerce, and met with representatives of various political parties.

Stressing the importance of revitalising all avenues of bilateral and regional cooperation, Yunus emphasised trade expansion and deeper people-to-people ties, particularly among youth. “I encourage SAARC, and I see our relationship with Pakistan and other SAARC countries as one of the highest priorities,” he said. He also underscored cultural engagement, adding, “When Pakistani singers perform in Bangladesh, everyone appreciates their talent. That is the spirit we must build upon.”

Dar, the first Pakistani foreign minister to visit Bangladesh in 13 years, said steps were underway to improve connectivity, including through shipping and aviation. “By October, we hope ‘Fly Jinnah’ will begin direct flights between our two countries. PIA is also expected to resume direct flights to Dhaka once the airline is privatised,” he noted.

Both sides expressed optimism that stronger trade ties, cultural exchanges, and regional cooperation would contribute to a more stable and prosperous South Asia.

The meeting was also attended by the Chief Adviser’s Special Envoy for International Affairs, Lutfey Siddiqi.