Historic Rivals Reconcile: Pakistan Foreign Minister Visits Bangladesh
AFP, Dhaka, 23rd - Pakistan Foreign Minister Qureshi arrived in Bangladesh today, becoming the highest-ranking Pakistani official to visit since 2012. After East Pakistan's independence as Bangladesh in 1971, the two countries were once sharply hostile. With the shift in regional power balance, both sides seek to rebuild their relations.
Islamabad stated that this visit is a "significant milestone in Pakistan-Bangladesh relations." The Pakistan Foreign Office said that Qureshi will meet Bangladesh's interim leader Yunus.
The two Muslim-majority countries are expected to sign multiple agreements covering trade matters tomorrow.
Analysts point out that India, which borders both countries, will closely watch Qureshi's visit. India and Pakistan had a four-day battle in May.
India's relationship with Bangladesh has cooled since August last year, when a people's uprising ended former Prime Minister Hasina's rule, leading her to flee to India.
American analyst Kugelman said: "Bangladesh has been one of India's closest partners in the neighboring region, but now it is showing interest in India's top enemy."
Pakistan and Bangladesh started maritime trade last year, and further direct government-to-government trade was launched in February this year.
Pakistan's Commerce Minister Kamar Khan arrived in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, on the 21st for ministerial talks on industrial cooperation, and military leaders from both countries met in Pakistan yesterday.
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1841248653391882/
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