The Foreign Office spokesperson, Shafqat Ali Khan, confirmed that recent high-level diplomatic consultations between Pakistan and Bangladesh addressed several longstanding issues, including Bangladesh’s demands for a formal apology and compensation related to the events of 1971.

Foreign Office Secretary Amina Baloch traveled to Dhaka for these consultations, marking the first such visit in 15 years. Following the meeting, reports from international media and Bangladeshi outlets like the “Daily Star” and “Dhaka Tribune” revealed that Bangladesh is seeking an apology for the 1971 events, compensation, the return of unpaid funds, and international donations received for the 1970 cyclone.

Bangladeshi Foreign Secretary Jashim Uddin emphasized that “strong bilateral relations are not possible without resolving these matters,” as quoted by the Daily Star. He also stated that these issues are crucial for stabilizing the mutual foundation between the two countries.

During a weekly press briefing, Khan acknowledged that while some longstanding matters were discussed, both sides approached the dialogue with mutual respect and understanding.

He noted that certain elements are attempting to undermine the strengthening ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh by spreading “false or sensational news.” Nevertheless, he asserted that the negotiations were conducted in a positive and constructive environment.

Khan remarked that these consultations, held after a 15-year gap, reflect goodwill and harmony between the two nations, asserting that misleading reports cannot diminish the significance of this development.

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The discussions covered a wide range of topics including political, economic, cultural, educational, and strategic cooperation, rooted in shared history and public aspirations.

Both countries expressed satisfaction with recent high-level meetings in New York, Cairo, Samoa, and Jeddah, and emphasized the importance of ongoing institutional contact to enhance relations, expedite pending agreements, and boost cooperation in trade, agriculture, education, and connectivity.

Pakistan offered educational opportunities in its agricultural universities, while Bangladesh proposed technical training in fisheries and maritime studies. The Bangladeshi delegation welcomed scholarship offers from Pakistani private universities and highlighted the need for greater educational collaboration.

Relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh have seen improvement since the fall of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government last August.

In December, during the D-8 conference in Cairo, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Bangladesh’s interim leader Dr. Muhammad Yunus expressed their intention to resolve lingering grievances stemming from 1971.

The armed forces of both nations agreed in January to protect their bilateral relations from external influences and foster a lasting partnership.