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.
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What are the key outcomes expected from the upcoming meeting of the Pakistan-Bangladesh Joint Economic Commission that could influence their bilateral relations?
**Interview with Dr. Amina Rahman, Geopolitical Analyst**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Rahman. Pakistan and Bangladesh seem to be making significant strides toward enhancing their bilateral relations. What are your thoughts on the recent developments regarding the Pakistan-Bangladesh Joint Economic Commission (JEC)?
**Dr. Rahman:** Thank you for having me. Indeed, the forthcoming meeting of the JEC is quite significant. Both countries are recognizing the need to strengthen their ties, especially following the recent political shifts in Bangladesh. This meeting provides a vital platform to address various issues, including trade and defense production, which are essential for both economies.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned trade and defense production. Can you elaborate on what specific areas are being targeted for enhancement?
**Dr. Rahman:** Absolutely. One of the key agenda items is the review of existing trade relations. Both nations are expected to discuss how they can improve their interactions, which could include negotiations on tariff reductions and other trade facilitation measures. Additionally, Pakistan’s defense production capabilities could complement Bangladesh’s needs, particularly in areas like arms manufacturing and technology transfer [[1](https://southasiajournal.net/revisiting-pakistan-bangladesh-relations-historical-context-and-future-prospects/)].
**Interviewer:** There’s also a mention of a Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT). How important is that for Pakistan and Bangladesh?
**Dr. Rahman:** A Bilateral Investment Treaty is crucial for establishing a stable and predictable environment for investors from both countries. It offers legal protections and encourages foreign direct investment. This could lead to more robust economic collaboration, helping both nations to leverage their strengths while mitigating risks associated with cross-border investments.
**Interviewer:** The report also indicates that Bangladesh is seeking duty-free access for specific products. How might this impact bilateral trade?
**Dr. Rahman:** Providing duty-free access to Bangladeshi products will likely enhance trade volumes significantly. For example, if Bangladesh receives favorable terms for products across 10 categories, it can boost exports, which is vital for its growing economy. Conversely, Pakistan could benefit from increased imports and diversification of its supply chain, ultimately leading to a more balanced trade relationship [[1](https://southasiajournal.net/revisiting-pakistan-bangladesh-relations-historical-context-and-future-prospects/)].
**Interviewer:** Given the historical context between the two nations, how do you see their relationship evolving in the future?
**Dr. Rahman:** The relationship between Pakistan and Bangladesh has always been complex, marked by a mix of cooperation and discord. However, recent developments indicate a willingness to move forward constructively. By focusing on common economic interests and collaboration, they can potentially overcome historical grievances. This shift could not only stabilize their bilateral relationship but also enhance regional cooperation in South Asia, which is increasingly essential in today’s geopolitical landscape [[1](https://southasiajournal.net/revisiting-pakistan-bangladesh-relations-historical-context-and-future-prospects/)].
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Rahman, for sharing your insights. It will be interesting to see how the meetings proceed and what outcomes arise from them.
**Dr. Rahman:** Thank you for having me. I look forward to developments in this important relationship.
