Mon Jan 13 05:52:02 UTC 2025: ## Bangladesh Eases Visa Restrictions for Pakistanis to Boost Trade

**Lahore, Pakistan –** Bangladesh has significantly eased visa requirements for Pakistani citizens, aiming to bolster trade and economic cooperation between the two nations, according to Bangladesh High Commissioner to Pakistan, Iqbal Hussain. Speaking at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) on Saturday, Mr. Hussain announced that the interim Bangladeshi government, led by Chief Advisor Mohammad Yunus, has removed the need for Dhaka clearance for Pakistani heads of missions applying for visas.

This move follows a period of strained relations between the two countries over the past decade. Mr. Hussain highlighted Bangladesh’s substantial consumer market of 180 million people as a significant opportunity for Pakistan to capitalize on, stating that current trade potential remains largely untapped. He emphasized the need to prioritize increased trade and investment as a key step towards strengthening bilateral relations.

The High Commissioner also advocated for enhanced regional cooperation, particularly through the revitalization of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). He stressed the importance of collaborative efforts to overcome challenges facing South Asia, citing the COVID-19 pandemic as an example of how international cooperation is vital for maintaining smooth trade flows even during crises.

Current bilateral trade between Pakistan and Bangladesh stands at $718 million for the fiscal year 2023-24, according to data presented by LCCI president Mian Abuzar Shad. The announcement of eased visa restrictions signals a proactive approach from Bangladesh to unlock greater economic potential through strengthened ties with Pakistan.

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