Nawaz, Maryam Sharif Meet Bangladesh Delegation; 500 Scholarships Announced for Pakistani Students

Lahore — In a significant step toward revitalizing bilateral relations, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Muhammad Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif held a high-level meeting on Monday with Dr. Khalid Hussain, Adviser on Religious Affairs to the Government of Bangladesh. The meeting was also attended by Bangladesh High Commissioner to Pakistan, MD Iqbal Hussain Khan.

A major highlight of the session was Bangladesh’s announcement of 500 new scholarships for Pakistani students, signaling a commitment to deeper educational and cultural cooperation between the two countries.

During the meeting, former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif emphasized the deep-rooted historical and emotional ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh. Reflecting on the enduring bond, he stated, “The hearts of the Pakistani people are still filled with love for their Bangladeshi brothers.” He also paid tribute to MM Alam, the legendary air force pilot, describing him as a shared symbol of pride between the nations.

Praising Bangladesh’s impressive economic growth, Nawaz Sharif noted, “This is the best time to increase mutual proximity between Pakistan and Bangladesh.”

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif commended Bangladesh’s achievements in sectors such as garments, microfinance, and women’s empowerment, calling the relationship a “generational brotherhood beyond borders.” She advocated for stronger trade ties and increased people-to-people contact, while also proposing collaboration in green energy, flood management, and agricultural sustainability.

“We envision a lasting partnership for peace and prosperity in the region,” she added.

Bangladesh High Commissioner MD Iqbal Hussain Khan praised Nawaz Sharif for his leadership during Pakistan’s 1998 nuclear tests, saying, “The people of Bangladesh see Muhammad Nawaz Sharif as a great hero. His services still live like a fragrance in the hearts of the Bangladeshi people.” He also recognized the growing leadership role of Maryam Nawaz in public service.

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Dr. Khalid Hussain expressed admiration for the Sharif family’s contributions to Pakistan, stating their services would be “written in golden letters.” He expressed Bangladesh’s strong desire to enhance cooperation with Pakistan across all sectors and highlighted his appreciation for Maryam Nawaz’s leadership style and public engagements.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to expand bilateral cooperation in education, trade, climate resilience, and interfaith harmony — reflecting a renewed sense of partnership between Pakistan and Bangladesh.