Pakistan, Bangladesh to Boost Trade, Women-Led Development: CM Punjab

Lahore-(Asif Iqbal)-Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif met with the High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Pakistan, Mr. Iqbal Hussain Khan, in Lahore to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation. The two sides agreed to enhance collaboration in areas of mutual interest including trade, industry, agriculture, and women-led development.

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Speaking on the occasion, CM Maryam Nawaz described Pakistan and Bangladesh as “two branches of the same tree,” bound by a shared history, culture, and values. She appreciated Bangladesh’s notable achievements in the garments industry, microfinance, and women’s workforce empowerment.

The Chief Minister welcomed collaboration under Bangladesh’s “Women First” agenda, particularly in establishing women-led industrial clusters and digital upskilling programs in Punjab. She emphasized that Punjab and Bangladesh could expand cooperation in agriculture and food security.

Highlighting a milestone in bilateral trade, CM Maryam recalled that under a MoU signed in January 2025, Punjab exported 50,000 metric tons of premium-quality rice to Bangladesh.

She further proposed enhanced cooperation in the pharmaceutical and medical devices sectors. Punjab, she stated, can offer Bangladesh access to internationally accredited laboratories, affordable surgical exports, and opportunities for joint branding under a common label.

Referring to recent steps taken by Bangladesh such as easing visa clearances, streamlining inspections, and removing the security desk at Dhaka Airport for Pakistani businesses, the Chief Minister said such actions reflect growing mutual trust.

She also welcomed the proposal to establish a Pakistan-Bangladesh Joint Chamber of Commerce in both Lahore and Dhaka, and assured that Bangladeshi investors will be facilitated through one-window business centers in Punjab.

Calling the upcoming Vision 2030 “Women First” Summit a matter of pride for Pakistan, CM Maryam stated it is not just a diplomatic event but a foundation for sustainable partnerships built on shared values and mutual respect.

The Bangladeshi High Commissioner appreciated the Chief Minister’s development initiatives and people-centric governance, expressing optimism for deeper future ties between the two nations.