Pakistan Eyes Stronger Trade, Tourism and People-to-People Ties with Bangladesh: High Commissioner

DHAKA, July 22, 2026 — Pakistan High Commissioner Imran Haider has reaffirmed Islamabad's commitment to strengthening engagement with Bangladesh by expanding people-to-people connectivity, bilateral trade and tourism cooperation, describing the three sectors as key pillars of a forward-looking relationship between the two countries.

Speaking during his recent engagements in Dhaka, the High Commissioner said the Pakistan High Commission is actively working to bring the peoples of the two countries closer through increased educational, cultural and business exchanges.

He said this during a special interview with The Shuttle Times at his residence in the city recently.

The High Commissioner also noted that trade has increased by at least 30 percent recently, 15,000 patients were sent to Pakistan for specialized treatment, and the tourism sector is showing promising growth with an increasing number of travelers from both countries.

"Our priority is to strengthen people-to-people connectivity, enhance trade relations and promote the tourism sector between Pakistan and Bangladesh," Haider said, underscoring the importance of broadening bilateral engagement beyond traditional diplomatic channels.

The special envoy observed that close contact between the citizenry would be helpful in promoting mutual understanding, whereas increased trade ties would lead to economic benefits for both the companies of the two countries.

It was pointed out that there is much scope for developing bilateral trade through greater B2B cooperation, participation in exhibitions, and finding new channels of cooperation and investment.

Highlighting tourism as another promising area, Haider said enhanced travel links, cultural exchanges and easier interaction between the people of the two countries could contribute to increased tourism flows and deeper appreciation of their shared historical and cultural heritage.

The High Commissioner also pointed to education and youth exchanges as important instruments for building long-term partnerships, citing initiatives such as scholarships, academic collaboration and institutional linkages between universities in Pakistan and Bangladesh.

Diplomatic observers say the remarks reflect Pakistan's broader effort to diversify bilateral engagement with Bangladesh by placing greater emphasis on soft diplomacy, economic cooperation and people-centred initiatives alongside traditional diplomatic relations.