Pakistan Invites Bangladesh PM Tarique Rahman for Official Visit in First High-Level Engagement

Pakistan has invited Bangladesh’s newly elected Prime Minister Tarique Rahman for an official visit. The invitation marks the first high-level engagement between the two countries after Bangladesh’s recent general elections.

The invitation was extended on Monday, February 16, 2026, by Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal. He met the Bangladeshi prime minister in Dhaka shortly after the oath-taking ceremony.

Ahsan Iqbal represented Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif during the meeting. He conveyed warm congratulations to Tarique Rahman on his election victory and expressed Pakistan’s desire to strengthen bilateral relations.

Both leaders discussed ways to improve cooperation in trade, education, and regional development. They agreed that closer ties would benefit people in both countries.

The Pakistani minister emphasized the importance of reviving SAARC. He said regional conflicts have slowed economic integration in South Asia and called for a shared geo-economic vision.

Pakistan also proposed a Pakistan-Bangladesh Knowledge Corridor. The plan includes student exchanges, research collaboration, and academic partnerships between universities of both countries.

Ahsan Iqbal informed the Bangladeshi prime minister that Pakistan has allocated 500 scholarships for Bangladeshi students. Officials confirmed that 75 students are already enrolled in Pakistani institutions.

The two sides also discussed cooperation in digital governance, data systems, and capacity building. Institutions such as NADRA and statistical departments were mentioned for future collaboration.

Trade opportunities, small and medium enterprises, cottage industries, and the possibility of direct flights were also discussed to improve connectivity between the two nations.

The meeting concluded with a proposal to jointly celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of Allama Muhammad Iqbal next year. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to peace, stability, and long-term cooperation.