Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashiruddin has said that more dialogue between Bangladeshi and Pakistani businessmen would ensure the relationship, newly prioritised following the August 5 Uprising, by Dhaka.

"Exploring potential cooperation between the two countries could bring mutual benefits," he said during a meeting with a delegation led by Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) President Atif Ikram Sheikh at the Secretariat on Sunday.

During the meeting, key issues regarding bilateral trade between Pakistan and Bangladesh were discussed, including visa facilitation, direct flight operations, and future investment opportunities.

The adviser said that initiatives have been put in place to make trade relations between the two nations more sustainable.

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“Despite the large populations of both countries, their trade volume remains quite low and there is significant potential for growth,” he added.

The FPCCI president expressed a desire to boost trade with Bangladesh. He pointed out that visa issues and the lack of direct flight services have hindered efforts to expand trade.

He called for steps to address these challenges.

The Pakistani delegation also showed interest in investing in Bangladesh’s agricultural, educational, tourism, and ceramic sectors.

In addition, they discussed Pakistan’s new export facilitation scheme and invited Bangladeshi businessmen to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan.

The delegation also proposed organising a trade expo in Bangladesh to further strengthen business ties.

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Pakistan's High Commissioner to Dhaka, Syed Ahmed Maruf, attended the meeting.

The Pakistani business delegation is in Dhaka at the invitation of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI).