Pakistan’s Prime Minister aims to strengthen relations with Bangladesh during a meeting with Yunus at the UN General Assembly.

NEW YORK – Bilateral relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh are improving as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with Bangladesh Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly to discuss expanding cooperation.

During their meeting, PM Sharif and Yunus reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration in various sectors. This discussion occurs amidst a noticeable warming of relations between Bangladesh and Pakistan following the departure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Sharif’s meeting with Yunus occurred during a ceremony commemorating 50 years of Bangladesh’s membership in the UN. Local media reported that the discussions were constructive, emphasizing the promotion of cooperation and the enhancement of bilateral relations.

Dr. Yunus warmly welcomed Sharif and his delegation, which included Defense Minister Khawaja Asif and Information Minister Attaullah Tarar. Earlier this month, Pakistan’s foreign office expressed its commitment to fostering “robust, multifaceted, friendly relations” with Bangladesh to promote regional peace and stability.

Sharif’s visit to New York also aims to engage with global leaders on critical issues such as terrorism, the Gaza conflict, and the Kashmir dispute.

Islamabad’s relationship with Dhaka has been complex since Bangladesh gained independence, with tensions escalating during Hasina’s administration, particularly due to the prosecution of JI party members for war crimes related to the 1971 conflict.