Bangladesh-Pakistan direct flights set to resume after 5 years as bilateral thaw progresses

In a significant move aimed at strengthening ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh, Dhaka’s Deputy High Commissioner, S M Mahbubul Alam, announced that direct flights between the two nations will resume shortly. This marks the end of a five-year hiatus since the last direct flight between Pakistan and Bangladesh in 2018. The resumption of air services is expected to greatly enhance connectivity, facilitate trade, and improve diplomatic relations between the two countries, reports PTI.

Trade and Business 

During his visit to the Hyderabad Chamber of Small Traders and Small Industry (HCSTSI) in Pakistan, Alam emphasised the importance of the resumed flights in boosting bilateral trade and fostering closer business ties. Alam extended an invitation to Pakistan’s business community to participate in Bangladesh’s Annual Trade Exhibition, which is scheduled for January 2025 in Dhaka. To facilitate participation, Alam assured that the visa process would be streamlined.

This announcement comes on the heels of another important development in bilateral trade: in mid-November, the first direct cargo vessel from Karachi successfully docked at Chittagong port in Bangladesh. This milestone marks a significant step forward in the economic relations between the two nations, providing a more efficient route for trade and goods exchange.

A Shift in Governance

These advancements occur against the backdrop of significant political changes in Bangladesh. Earlier this year, the prime minister, Sheikh Hasina, was ousted following an uprising led by students, and an interim government led by Muhammad Yunus assumed power. Despite these shifts, Yunus has emphasized the need to leverage Pakistan-Bangladesh’s shared history, culture, and trade potential to strengthen bilateral ties.

Alam highlighted that the resumption of direct flights is in line with these goals, which will not only improve air connectivity but also contribute to the growing trade between the two nations. Alam noted that discussions about the resumption of flights and easing visa processes had been ongoing since September, with meetings between Syed Ahmed Maroof, Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, and Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, Bangladesh’s Home Affairs Adviser.

Shared History and Growing Trade Relations

The relationship between Pakistan and Bangladesh is rooted in shared history and culture, with trade playing a central role in their ties. HCSTSI president Muhammad Saleem Memon highlighted the growing importance of trade between the two countries, noting the progress made in recent months, including the successful cargo shipment from Pakistan to Bangladesh in November.

Memon also called for increased participation from Bangladeshi traders in exhibitions held in Pakistan, urging the High Commission to facilitate Pakistani traders attending events in Bangladesh. Both sides are eager to capitalize on the growing opportunities for collaboration, trade, and business development.

The resumption of direct flights between Pakistan and Bangladesh is a pivotal moment in the strengthening of bilateral relations. It reflects a renewed commitment to trade, people-to-people exchanges, and diplomatic cooperation. As the two countries work to enhance trade ties and improve connectivity, the future of Pakistan-Bangladesh relations looks increasingly promising, with air travel and cargo transport serving as key enablers of economic growth and cooperation.