In a significant step toward enhancing bilateral relations, Lieutenant General S M Kamr-ul-Hassan, Principal Staff Officer of Bangladesh’s Armed Forces Division, held a high-level meeting with Pakistan’s Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu at the Air Force Headquarters in Islamabad on Wednesday.
The meeting is part of a series of high-level engagements during Lt. Gen. Hassan’s rare visit to Pakistan. On Tuesday, he met with Pakistan’s Army Chief, General Syed Asim Munir, to discuss regional security and cooperation, emphasizing the need for resilience against external influences.
The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) released a statement highlighting discussions on joint training initiatives and exchange programs to enhance collaboration between the air forces of the two countries. Lt. Gen. Hassan expressed keen interest in PAF’s innovative projects and cutting-edge technological advancements, particularly the indigenously developed JF-17 Thunder fighter jets.
Air Chief Marshal Sidhu reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to fostering a robust military partnership with Bangladesh, emphasizing the importance of joint efforts in regional stability and defense innovation.
This visit marks a significant thaw in Pakistan-Bangladesh relations, which had been strained since their separation in 1971. Relations have shown considerable improvement following the ouster of Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024.
In addition to defense collaborations, the two nations are making strides in economic partnerships. During the same week, Pakistan and Bangladesh signed a landmark agreement to establish a joint business council aimed at boosting trade and investment. A memorandum of understanding was also signed for rice exports from Pakistan to Bangladesh.
Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar is scheduled to visit Dhaka in February to further strengthen ties, reflecting the ongoing efforts to build a new chapter in relations between the two South Asian nations.
This renewed cooperation between Pakistan and Bangladesh is expected to open doors for broader collaborations in trade, defense, and regional stability.
