Foreign Affairs Analysts Anticipate Political-Level Follow-Up to Dhaka-Islamabad FOC

Foreign affairs analysts in Dhaka are closely observing the recent Foreign Office Consultation (FOC) between Bangladesh and Pakistan, expressing anticipation for follow-up developments at the political level. The FOC addressed critical bilateral issues, including Pakistan’s apology for the 1971 genocide and asset sharing.

Former diplomat and foreign relations expert Ambassador Humayun Kabir noted the significance of the Pakistani foreign secretary’s representation at the FOC, especially as it was held after a 15-year hiatus. He added that the upcoming visit of Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar to Dhaka later this month could bring further progress on the matters discussed.

Kabir, who leads the Bangladesh Enterprise Institute (BEI), emphasized that the topic of an official apology from Pakistan was raised during the talks. He stated that if an apology could help heal historical wounds, Islamabad should take the initiative for the sake of improved bilateral ties. “It’s a good time for them to do it,” he remarked.

Professor Imtiaz Ahmed of Dhaka University’s Department of International Relations commented on Pakistan's reluctance to issue an official apology, contrasting it with historical precedents set by countries such as France and Japan. He also highlighted asset sharing as a significant issue, suggesting that resolving it could accelerate the development of bilateral relations.

Ahmed underscored the importance of independent bilateral ties, free from the influence of relations with third countries, and emphasized that such relations should primarily benefit the people and economies of both nations—particularly Bangladesh. He pointed out that while Bangladesh is currently in a stronger economic position, the onus lies with Pakistan to open its market to Bangladeshi products, as mere political goodwill may not suffice to deepen ties.

Former Ambassador Mahfuzur Rahman observed that Pakistan appeared keen to revive official-level engagement after 15 years, with historical issues being revisited. He expressed hope that the political-level discussions during Dar’s upcoming visit would provide a meaningful direction for the outcomes of the FOC. Rahman, who formerly served as Bangladesh’s deputy high commissioner in Islamabad, stated, “We expect to see the follow-up of talks which we had today at the foreign secretary level meeting and a subsequent joint press conference.”