Bangladesh, Pakistan to expedite bilateral trade, commerce

Adviser to the interim government on the Ministries of Finance and Commerce Dr Salehuddin Ahmed on Tuesday put emphasis on expediting the existing trade and commerce relations between Bangladesh and Pakistan which had long been remained stagnant.

"Trade and commerce with Pakistan had long been stagnant due to various reasons and we'll have to ...," he said.

The Adviser was talking to reporters after the Pakistan High Commissioner to Bangladesh Syed Ahmed Maroof met him at his ERD office in the capital's Sher- e-Bangla Nagar area in Dhaka, reports BSS.

When asked about boosting the bilateral trade, Dr Salehuddin said he suggested the Pakistan high Commissioner to pursue and engage more the private sector in this regard rather than relying only on G2G process.

He said the Pakistan High Commissioner had shown their keen interest in Bangladesh's jute products since it is very attractive having a wide variation of products.

"It was beyond their imagination...they will participate in an exhibition and they will try to promote and import more jute-made goods if their entrepreneurs are convinced. Our businesses can also import products from them if they are convinced," he added.

Salehuddin said Pakistan will also try to relaunch direct flight like Dhaka- Karachi if that is commercially viable.

Regarding boosting economic cooperation, the Finance Adviser said there are some issues like technical assistance while projects could be taken in joint cooperation. "But, many surrounding matters like interests of both the countries should have to be considered..."

Noting that Pakistan wants to start the economic cooperation strongly, he said, "But, it can't be open or launch quickly ....we can't start immediately, rather we have to make some homework which is also similar to them."

The Pakistan High Commissioner said they have a wonderful discussion regarding the economic and trade relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh.

"We discussed every aspect of that and we are looking forward to have a greater and in-depth economic and trade cooperation as well as interaction with Bangladesh in the coming years," he added.

Asked about the possible cooperation from Pakistan under the current circumstances, the Pakistan envoy said, "At the moment, we feel that the assistance that we can provide ...we again reiterated that the post flood situation in Bangladesh where we can provide some assistance ...and we are waiting. The offer stands as made by our Prime Minister like several days ago when he called the Chief Adviser,"

"So, that offer is still there and I shared this with the Finance Adviser and we are ready to assist Bangladesh, the government and the people in post flood relief efforts." added the Pakistan High Commissioner.