ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Bangladesh are considering launching a ferry service and establishing a direct shipping line as part of efforts to expand trade and tourism between the two countries, said an official statement on Wednesday.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry met Bangladesh’s High Commissioner Iqbal Hussain Khan in Islamabad to discuss enhancing maritime cooperation and strengthening economic ties.
“A ferry service will significantly increase tourism and trade activities,” Chaudhry said, according to the statement.
He added that promoting maritime connectivity in the region would help strengthen economic stability, while a direct shipping line between the two countries would give fresh momentum to bilateral trade.
Both sides expressed commitment to elevating maritime cooperation and expanding trade and economic collaboration.
Chaudhry said Pakistan wanted to transform historical ties into a strong economic partnership, the statement added.
Pakistan and Bangladesh were part of the same country until Bangladesh’s secession following a bloody civil war in 1971, an event that long cast a shadow over bilateral relations.
However, ties have improved since August 2024 following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who was widely viewed as close to India.
Dhaka has since deepened engagement with Islamabad, resuming direct flights in January after more than a decade.
