LAHORE – Bangladesh’s High Commissioner Iqbal Hussain Khan has said that flights between Karachi and Dhaka from next month would be a significant leap in strengthening connectivity.
Speaking at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI), he stated that the visa process has been simplified.
The High Commissioner stated that visas are now being issued on the joint recommendation of LCCI and the Bangladesh Honorary Consulate in Lahore, adding that visas will be issued to members within three to four days, making travel between the two countries faster and easier.
Highlighting trade opportunities, High Commissioner Khan said Pakistan can export rice to Bangladesh, while Bangladesh can supply fresh pineapples to Pakistan. He also pointed out significant potential in textiles and ready-made garments.
He further mentioned that a direct cargo shipping service will soon be launched. While a cargo service between the two countries has been operational since last December, rising trade demand now requires a dedicated direct cargo route.
In the education sector, the High Commissioner encouraged both countries to collaborate. The Higher Education Commission of Pakistan will soon send a delegation to Bangladesh, comprising representatives from 12 universities.
He also highlighted Pakistan’s tourism sector as an area with considerable potential. The High Commissioner stressed the shared culture, history, and values of the two nations, describing them as closely connected and united as one community.
LCCI President Faheem ur Rehman Saigol stated that the two countries are sharing a common heritage. He said Pakistan can increase rice exports to Bangladesh and also seek guidance from Bangladesh in the garments sector. He noted that both nations have opportunities to collaborate in IT, automobiles, and other industries. Currently, bilateral trade stands at approximately 700 million dollars, but there is potential to increase it to 3 billion dollars over the next few years.
President Saigol added that direct flights would further enhance trade relations, and LCCI is ready to provide full support to the Bangladesh High Commission in this regard.
