Pakistan has offered Bangladesh access to the Karachi Port to strengthen trade and regional connectivity, especially with China and Central Asian countries.
The proposal was made during the ninth meeting of the Pakistan-Bangladesh Joint Economic Commission (JEC) held in Dhaka — the first such meeting in 20 years. The session marked an important step in reviving economic and diplomatic cooperation between the two countries.
Both sides agreed to enhance collaboration in several key areas, including trade, energy, information technology, education, health, and tourism. Officials from both nations emphasized that improving trade routes and port access could significantly increase regional business opportunities and strengthen people-to-people ties.
To promote education and skill development, Pakistan announced 500 fully funded scholarships for Bangladeshi students. In addition, the number of technical training seats for Bangladeshi professionals will be increased from 5 to 25, allowing greater participation in specialized training programs offered in Pakistan.
A major outcome of the meeting was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Pakistan Halal Authority (PHA) and the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institute (BSTI).
This agreement aims to enhance cooperation in halal certification, quality control, and standardization — an important step to facilitate trade in food and consumer goods between the two countries.
Officials from both sides expressed hope that these initiatives would not only improve economic relations but also pave the way for stronger political understanding and mutual growth in South Asia.
