Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam has said the chief adviser is committed to strengthening ties with all Saarc member states, viewing them as part of the South Asian family, and in that spirit, Bangladesh seeks to enhance its relationship with Pakistan, a fellow Saarc member, just as it aims to deepen relations with India, Bhutan and Nepal.
He made the statement on Tuesday while responding to questions from journalists at a press briefing at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka, regarding the upcoming visit of Pakistan’s foreign secretary to Bangladesh, reports Bangla Tribune.
Shafiqul noted that a decision was taken last week to establish an economic zone for Nepal, with land being identified in northern Bangladesh.
He explained that this initiative reflects Bangladesh’s broader commitment to regional development.
During the Pakistani foreign secretary’s visit, all matters of mutual interest will be discussed, he added.
Shafiqul said Bangladesh’s foreign policy is firmly pro-Bangladesh, adding that all diplomatic efforts are guided by the objective of safeguarding and advancing the country’s national interests.
The press secretary also recalled that following his oath-taking on August 8, Dr Muhammad Yunus emphasized that revitalizing Saarc and fostering relations with its member states would be a key aspect of his foreign policy.
He reiterated this commitment on several occasions, including during sessions of the United Nations General Assembly, the D-8 Summit, the Davos Forum and meetings held in Baku.
