DHAKA, Sep 10, 2024 (BSS) - Adviser to the interim government on the
Ministries of Finance and Commerce Dr Salehuddin Ahmed today 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 today.

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.