International: In a significant move to reset a historically frosty relationship, Bangladesh’s interim government has announced plans to revive the long-dormant Joint Economic Commission (JEC) with Pakistan. The decision, revealed during a visit by Pakistan’s Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan to Dhaka, signals a concerted effort to deepen bilateral trade and investment.
The announcement came after a meeting between Minister Khan and Bangladesh’s Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin on August 21. Uddin, speaking to reporters, confirmed that both sides had agreed to make the JEC operational again, along with establishing a new Trade and Investment Commission. “The existing JEC between the two countries was not so operational over the years,” Uddin said, emphasising the need for its revitalisation.
The discussions covered a broad spectrum of issues aimed at boosting commerce. Bangladesh raised key concerns, requesting the withdrawal of anti-dumping duties on its hydrogen peroxide exports and the reinstatement of a duty-free quota for 10 million kilograms of tea exports to Pakistan. Uddin said Pakistan had given assurances that these requests would be considered. Dhaka also sought Islamabad’s support in developing its leather and sugar industries and invited Pakistani investment in intermediate goods manufacturing.
According to Uddin, Bangladesh’s annual imports are valued at USD 80 billion, with food and intermediate products accounting for USD 15 billion of that amount. He said that if both nations could jointly produce intermediate goods, it would be a mutually beneficial arrangement.
When quizzed on whether this shift indicates a leaning towards Pakistan, Uddin’s response was direct. “We are leaning towards everyone—Pakistan, the United States, even importing onions from India,” he stated, underscoring that Bangladesh’s national interest is the primary driver of its foreign policy.
The move marks a departure from the strained relations of the past, particularly under the previous government. The new Muhammad Yunus-led interim government, which took office in August 2024, has actively sought to normalise ties. Since then, direct shipping has been initiated, visa regimes have been eased, and direct flight operations are on the horizon, with airlines like Fly Jinnah already securing approval. A Pakistani business delegation had also visited Dhaka in January, the first in 12 years. Further cementing the diplomatic thaw, Bangladesh has also decided to sign an agreement to grant visa-free travel for government officials and diplomats from both countries for five years.