Naveed Ahmed Khan Photo by Sultan Bashir
ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain on Tuesday congratulated the government and people of Bangladesh on the occasion of their Independence and National Day, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
He was addressing a reception held to mark the 55th anniversary of Bangladesh’s Independence and National Day, celebrated in the federal capital with enthusiasm and diplomatic goodwill. The event was hosted by the Bangladesh High Commission at the Serena Hotel Islamabad.Bangladesh High Commissioner to Pakistan Md. Iqbal Hossain Khan, along with mission officials, warmly received the guests.
The ceremony was attended by a wide range of dignitaries, including the Governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, federal ministers, the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, senators, members of national and provincial assemblies, ambassadors, high commissioners, representatives of the United Nations and other international organisations, as well as senior civil and military officials, business leaders, journalists, civil society members, media personalities and members of the Bangladeshi diaspora.The programme commenced with the national anthems of Pakistan and Bangladesh.
In his remarks, Rana Tanveer Hussain lauded Bangladesh’s significant socio-economic progress and stressed the importance of further enhancing cooperation between the two countries for mutual benefit.
In his welcome address, High Commissioner Md. Iqbal Hossain Khan highlighted the shared aspirations of both nations to deepen bilateral ties and promote regional cooperation in South Asia. He emphasized Bangladesh’s commitment to expanding collaboration with Pakistan in areas such as trade, direct air and maritime connectivity, education, tourism, culture, industry, healthcare, agriculture and energy.
Referring to his country’s foreign policy direction, he noted that the government, under the leadership of Tarique Rahman, is focused on advancing development and safeguarding national interests through stronger engagement with friendly countries.He also sought Pakistan’s support for Bangladesh’s candidate, Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman, for the presidency of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.
