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.
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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.
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How significant is the role of historical relations in shaping the future of Pakistan-Bangladesh cooperation as discussed by Dr. Khan?
**Interview with Dr. Ayesha Khan, South Asia Relations Expert**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Khan. There have been recent developments hinting at strengthened bilateral relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh, specifically with the upcoming Pakistan-Bangladesh Joint Economic Commission (JEC) meeting. What are your thoughts on this?
**Dr. Khan:** Thank you for having me. It’s an important moment for both countries. Given the historical context of Bangladesh’s independence from Pakistan in 1971, the potential for collaboration in areas like trade and defense is significant. The JEC meeting could be a pivotal step towards normalizing relations that have been historically tense.
**Interviewer:** The JEC will reportedly discuss several key issues, including a review of existing trade relations and Bangladesh’s request for duty-free access to certain product categories. How crucial is this access for Bangladesh?
**Dr. Khan:** Duty-free access is vital for Bangladesh. It can enhance its export competitiveness, especially in sectors where it produces competitively. The request for access to 10 product categories totaling 104 items indicates a strategic approach to boost its trade profile with Pakistan. This could facilitate a more balanced trade relationship, addressing the trade deficit Bangladesh currently experiences.
**Interviewer:** The context of recent political changes in Bangladesh has been cited as a factor enhancing the importance of the JEC. Can you elaborate on that?
**Dr. Khan:** Yes, political developments can significantly impact international relations. A stable government focused on economic growth often seeks to strengthen ties with neighboring countries. If Bangladesh’s current government sees value in boosting economic cooperation with Pakistan, this could lead to long-term partnerships, not just economically but also politically.
**Interviewer:** The agenda also includes discussions on defense production. How might cooperation in this area affect both countries?
**Dr. Khan:** Strengthening defense cooperation can be beneficial for both nations, especially given the regional security dynamics. Joint production initiatives could reduce costs and improve capabilities while fostering closer ties. It’s a strategic move that could also help combat mutual security challenges, enhancing stability in South Asia.
**Interviewer:** what are your expectations from the upcoming JEC meeting in terms of tangible outcomes?
**Dr. Khan:** I expect there will be a willingness to engage in dialog and possibly some initial agreements. However, whether these discussions translate into firm commitments will depend on both governments’ political will and the ability to manage historical sensitivities. If they can overcome these hurdles, we could see a meaningful enhancement of bilateral ties.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Khan, for your insights. It’s clear that the upcoming JEC meeting has the potential to reshape Pakistan-Bangladesh relations significantly.
**Dr. Khan:** Thank you! I’m looking forward to seeing how this unfolds.
