Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif highlighted the deep affection between the people of Pakistan and Bangladesh at a reception celebrating the 54th National and Independence Day of Bangladesh, as the chief guest. The event was hosted by Bangladesh High Commissioner Muhammad Iqbal Hussain Khan and his spouse Roushan Naheed, as reported by “The News.”
Referring to the amicable relations between the two nations, Asif stated that both capitals are actively working towards enhancing economic, political, and cultural collaboration.
“We value our relationship with Bangladesh and are keen to deepen our engagement across various sectors.” He extended his best wishes to the government and people of Bangladesh on their Independence and National Day.
The minister commended Bangladesh’s significant progress in the socio-economic domain. Emphasizing the historical ties and bilateral relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh, he stressed the importance of further strengthening these relations to enhance developmental cooperation between the peoples of both countries.
He underscored the historic and cultural connections between Pakistan and Bangladesh as a crucial source of closeness between the two brotherly nations.
Bangladesh High Commissioner Muhammad Iqbal Hussain, hosting his inaugural National Day reception and recently returned from Dhaka following a successful visit by Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Ms. Amna Baloch, who led consultations between Pakistan and Bangladesh after 15 years, expressed visible delight at the impressive turnout of dignitaries.
In his address, he emphasized his country’s desire to maintain robust and friendly relations with Pakistan. He highlighted the beauty and hospitable atmosphere of his country and emphasized the need for increased cooperation and mutual understanding.
In addition to the Defence Minister, federal ministers Professor Ahsan Iqbal Chaudhary, Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhary, Moeen Wattoo, Ham Kamal, Khel Das Kohistani, Malik Rasheed Ahmad, Qaiser Ahmad Sheikh, and Muhammad Junaid Anwar were also in attendance.
The High Commissioner reiterated Bangladesh’s commitment to maintaining strong and friendly ties with Pakistan, while advocating for enhanced cooperation and mutual understanding.
The event was attended by members of the diplomatic corps, civil society, media, and the business community, and featured cultural elements from Bangladesh, including traditional cuisine such as Bengali Rasgulla and Becky fish, making it a memorable evening.
Muhammad Iqbal Hossain Khan paid sincere tribute to the freedom fighters and those who participated in the 2024 mass uprising. He emphasized the necessity of fulfilling the aspirations of the people of both nations by strengthening bilateral relations.
Earlier, the national anthems of both countries were played, and the chief guest, along with the High Commissioner and special guests, cut a cake
