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Pakistan, Bangladesh Foreign Ministers meet for first time since Dhaka’s new government took office

By The South Asia Times

ISLAMABAD - Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held talks with Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman on the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum 2026, marking their first meeting since a new government assumed office in Dhaka following elections in February.

In a statement, Dar said the two ministers discussed ways to strengthen bilateral ties and exchanged views on regional developments, including Pakistan’s role in facilitating dialogue on key issues. He expressed hope for “positive and forward-looking engagement” between the two countries.

The meeting comes amid a gradual thaw in relations that had remained strained for years, particularly during the tenure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Diplomatic engagement had been limited during that period, reflecting longstanding political and historical sensitivities.

However, ties began to show signs of improvement under the interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus, with both sides signaling a willingness to re-engage. Dar’s visit to Dhaka in August last year -- the first by a Pakistani foreign minister in 13 years -- was seen as a significant step toward resetting relations.

Pakistan and Bangladesh share a complex history dating back to the Bangladesh Liberation War, which led to Bangladesh’s independence from Pakistan. While historical issues have continued to shape bilateral ties, recent diplomatic contacts suggest a cautious effort by both sides to move forward through dialogue and cooperation.

Analysts say the latest meeting reflects a broader regional trend of re-engagement, as South Asian countries navigate shifting geopolitical dynamics and seek greater stability through diplomatic channels.