Pakistan, Bangladesh boost ties with security, visa-free travel deals

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Pakistan, Bangladesh boost ties with security, visa-free travel deals

DHAKA, JUL 23 /DNA/ – Federal Interior Minister of Pakistan, Mohsin Naqvi, held a significant meeting with Bangladesh’s Interior Minister, Lieutenant General (Retd.) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, during his official visit to Dhaka. The Bangladeshi minister extended a warm welcome to Minister Naqvi upon his arrival at the Ministry of Interior, where he was also presented with a Guard of Honor in a formal ceremony.

The discussions between the two ministers focused on enhancing bilateral relations and advancing mutual cooperation in key areas of shared interest. A major breakthrough was achieved as both countries agreed in principle to implement visa-free entry for holders of diplomatic and official passports, marking a pivotal step in facilitating smoother official exchanges between Pakistan and Bangladesh.

Strengthening collaboration in security and law enforcement was a key agenda item, with both sides agreeing to intensify efforts in internal security and police training. The ministers explored opportunities for exchanging training programs between their respective police academies to bolster professional development and operational efficiency.

The meeting also emphasized joint initiatives to combat terrorism, drug trafficking, and human smuggling, underscoring the shared commitment to regional security. To further institutionalize cooperation, the two nations decided to establish a joint committee, which will be led by Pakistan’s Federal Secretary of Interior, Khurram Agha.

In a gesture of deepening ties, Bangladesh announced plans to send a high-level delegation to Islamabad in the near future to review Pakistan’s Safe City Project and the National Police Academy, reflecting the growing interest in shared technological and training advancements.

Expressing his gratitude for the hospitality, Bangladesh’s Interior Minister stated, “I warmly welcome my brother from the depths of my heart upon his arrival in Dhaka. This visit is extremely important in strengthening Pakistan-Bangladesh relations.” He also thanked Minister Naqvi for Pakistan’s offer to support police training initiatives.

The meeting was attended by senior officials from both sides, including Bangladesh’s State Minister for Interior Khoda Bakhsh, Secretary Interior Nasim Ul Ghani, Additional Secretary Security Division Shamim Khan, and representatives from the Pakistan High Commission, including Chargé d’Affaires Muhammad Wasif and Political Counsellor Kamran Dahingal.

This high-level engagement marks a milestone in fostering closer ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh, paving the way for enhanced collaboration in security, law enforcement, and diplomatic exchanges. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to working together for regional stability and mutual prosperity.