Pakistan and Bangladesh are ready to strengthen their bilateral relations in various fields including trade, defense production and signing of Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT). Informed sources have indicated that these proposals will be reviewed in the upcoming meeting of the Pakistan-Bangladesh Joint Economic Commission (JEC).
According to a Business Recorder report, the importance of JEC has increased in the light of recent political changes in Bangladesh. The Ministry of External Affairs (MOFA) is currently working closely with the concerned ministries to finalize the agenda for the next meeting of the JEC.
Main points of the agenda
The following issues will be discussed during the JEC.
Bilateral Trade Overview: Review of existing trade relations and enhancement measures.
Duty Free Access: Bangladesh’s request for duty-free access to 10 product categories, covering a total of 104 products.
Free Trade Agreement: Negotiations on Bilateral FAT
Business diversity: Finding ways to diversify trade between the two countries.
Technical Cooperation in Textiles: Enhancing cooperation in the textile sector.
SME Sector Support: To promote cooperation between small and medium enterprises of the two countries.
Joint Business Council: Reactivating the Joint Business Council to facilitate business relations.
Regular exchange of trade delegations: Establish a forum for trade delegations to enhance direct interaction and provide other resources for discussion.
This upcoming JEC meeting will provide an important opportunity for both countries to strengthen their economic ties and explore new avenues for cooperation.
Bangladesh proposes a nuclear arms deal with Pakistan
According to the sources, the High Commissioner of Pakistan in Dhaka has highlighted the goodwill with the current government of Bangladesh.
According to sources, in view of this favorable environment, the High Commissioner emphasized the need to convene the Joint Economic Commission (JEC) at the earliest. He has held discussions with the adviser and commerce secretary in Bangladesh and stressed the importance of speeding up the process.
The first official statement of the government of Pakistan on the situation in Bangladesh came out
Bangladesh is currently negotiating concrete dates and an agenda for the JEC, which is expected to be held in Dhaka in late December or early January.
#PakBangladesh #relations #entered #era #ouster #proIndia #Sheikh #Hasina #Pakistan
What role do bilateral agreements, such as the proposed Bilateral Investment Treaty, play in enhancing trade relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh?
**Interview with Dr. Ayesha Khan, Expert on South Asian Relations**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Khan. We’re seeing significant movement in the diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh. Could you tell us about the recent developments regarding their economic ties?
**Dr. Ayesha Khan:** Thank you for having me. Yes, recent discussions indicate a renewed commitment by both Pakistan and Bangladesh to strengthen their bilateral relations, particularly in trade and investment. The upcoming meeting of the Pakistan-Bangladesh Joint Economic Commission (JEC) is crucial, as it reflects the response to changing political dynamics in Bangladesh. This meeting is expected to address various strategic areas including defense production and the signing of a Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT).
**Interviewer:** The significance of the JEC seems to be increasing. What specifically will be on the agenda?
**Dr. Ayesha Khan:** The agenda will cover several key aspects, with a focus on the Bilateral Trade Overview. The participants will evaluate the existing trade relations and discuss enhancement measures to boost economic cooperation. A notable point is Bangladesh’s request for duty-free access for ten product categories, which could significantly facilitate trade between the two nations. This measure, if implemented, is expected to cover a total of 104 products.
**Interviewer:** How do you think these developments will impact the relationship between Pakistan and Bangladesh, which historically has had its ups and downs?
**Dr. Ayesha Khan:** The relationship has indeed fluctuated due to historical and political tensions. However, this recent engagement suggests an opportunity for both countries to navigate beyond past grievances and foster a more collaborative spirit. By focusing on economic ties, both nations can create a foundation for stability and mutual benefit. Strengthening trade relations not only enhances economic prospects but also nurtures political goodwill.
**Interviewer:** With Bangladesh’s request for duty-free access, what mechanisms do you think will be necessary to facilitate this?
**Dr. Ayesha Khan:** To facilitate duty-free access, both governments will need to engage in comprehensive negotiations that consider the interests of various stakeholders. It will require a commitment to reducing trade barriers and developing frameworks that ensure compliance with both nations’ regulations. A transparent dialog, along with effective monitoring mechanisms, will be crucial in this process.
**Interviewer:** As the Ministry of External Affairs finalizes the agenda for the JEC meeting, what should we be watching for as indicators of progress?
**Dr. Ayesha Khan:** Key indicators will include the specifics of the agreements that are reached, particularly any commitments on trade facilitation and investment flows. I would also keep an eye on how both sides articulate their willingness to resolve outstanding issues—this will be essential in building trust moving forward. Furthermore, public reactions and how these developments play out in the media will also be important signals of the relationship’s trajectory.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Khan, for sharing your insights on these important developments in Pakistan-Bangladesh relations.
**Dr. Ayesha Khan:** My pleasure. It’s an exciting time for both countries as they look to reshape their future through economic collaboration.
