ISLAMABAD: Bangladesh High Commissioner to Pakistan Iqbal Hussain Khan has announced that his country will soon introduce a fast-track e-visa system, allowing applications to be processed within 24 hours.
Speaking during a visit to the Multan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), Khan described the initiative as “a significant step toward easing travel and boosting bilateral trade.”
He emphasised the “historic and brotherly relations” between Pakistan and Bangladesh, highlighting cultural affinities and long-standing commercial cooperation.
Khan also mentioned Bangladesh’s interest in exporting fresh pineapples to Pakistan, while noting strong demand among Pakistani consumers for Multan’s famed mango varieties — especially Chaunsa and Anwar Ratol — and discussed potential import opportunities with local growers.
On the other hand, he pointed out that Pakistani industrial goods, agricultural products, and textiles hold considerable promise in the Bangladeshi market. He expressed interest in expanding joint ventures, industrial collaboration, and bilateral investment to tap into these opportunities.
MCCI President Mian Bakhtawar Tanveer Sheikh said bilateral engagement had strengthened over the past year, with visible progress in trade and economic collaboration.
He noted that Bangladesh’s exports have surpassed USD 50 billion, driven largely by its booming textile sector.
He added that with improved trade facilitation, Multan’s premium mangoes could gain a strong foothold in international markets.
Sheikh urged Bangladesh to ramp up exhibitions and promote tourism — suggesting Pakistan-based tour packages featuring Multan, Lahore, and the northern regions. This, he argued, could deepen cultural exchange and draw Bangladeshi tourists.
The meeting concluded on an optimistic note, with both sides expressing hope that the soon-to-be-launched e-visa system will boost business mobility and open up new avenues for trade and cultural connectivity.
Earlier this month, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) inked a cargo interline special arrangement with Biman Bangladesh Airlines to strengthen bilateral trade and smoother air cargo movement.
Ties between the two countries have improved since the fall of Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s administration, which was seen as closely aligned with India and critical of Pakistan. This shift occurred following the student-led uprising in August 2024.
Pakistan has sought to strengthen its relations with Bangladesh in recent months, particularly as tensions remain between Dhaka and New Delhi, following India’s decision to offer asylum to Hasina after she fled Bangladesh.
