MD Jashim Uddin has commended the governments of Pakistan and Bangladesh for their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations by taking significant steps such as easing visa regulations and launching direct flights between the two nations. He especially thanked Honorable Minister of Commerce Government of Pakistan, Jam Kamal Khan for fulfilling his request of immediate opening of Dhaka-Karachi flights. MD Jashim Uddin expressed optimism that this momentum will continue, encouraging further initiatives that promote unity and shared prosperity in the region. He said that improved bilateral relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh could lead to multifaceted positive impacts, including increased trade, cultural exchange, and investment opportunities, ultimately contributing to stronger economic and social integration across South Asia. Mr. Jashim Uddin recently led a high-profile delegation of South Asian business leaders to Pakistan. The delegation's primary agenda was to advocate for reciprocal open visa regimes, which are crucial for enhancing people-to-people and business-to-business connectivity. He also commended the government of Pakistan for generously supporting the SAARC CCI HQ Building in Islamabad. Recently a business delegation from Pakistan led by Mr. Atif Ikram Shiekh President FPCCI visited Bangladesh to explore avenues for commercial and business collaboration and cooperation. Mr. Jashim Uddin highlighted that SAARC CCI’s persistent efforts are now bearing fruit. “Our mission to fortify trade and economic ties among SAARC nations is not just a vision; it is becoming a tangible reality. The initiatives we have spearheaded are fostering greater regional integration and economic collaboration, paving the way for a more interconnected and prosperous South Asia,” he stated. Airlines from both Pakistan and Bangladesh have initiated direct flights, significantly reducing travel time and fostering more frequent interactions among business communities. Moreover, negotiations are underway for launching a passenger ferry service and establishing direct sea routes, which will further solidify regional cooperation and open new avenues for economic collaboration. Mr. Jashim Uddin reiterated the indispensable role of revitalizing the SAARC in enhancing regional trade and cooperation. “The most cost-effective trade, which directly contributes to public well-being, occurs within neighborhoods. It is both economically prudent and socially beneficial to strengthen regional ties,” he asserted. In a move to further consolidate these gains, Mr. Jashim Uddin announced the upcoming South Asian Business Leaders Conclave, scheduled for May 17-18, 2025, in Dhaka. This pivotal event will convene business leaders, industrialists, entrepreneurs, and political figures from across the region to explore new avenues of cooperation and chart actionable strategies for regional development. “The Conclave will serve as a dynamic platform for dialogue, partnership, and innovation. It is an opportunity for us to come together, share insights, and collaboratively shape the future of South Asian trade and economic integration,” Mr. Jashim Uddin explained. Mian Anjum Nisar, Vice President of the SAARC CCI Pakistan said that the transformative potential of enhanced regional connectivity. “People-to-people and business-to-business connectivity is the cornerstone of peaceful, prosperous, and inclusive development. By fostering these connections, we are not just building economic bridges; we are laying the foundation for a unified South Asia where prosperity is shared, and development is inclusive,” he declared. He also expressed optimism surrounding this renewed partnership, which holds immense potential for fostering regional trade, investment, and economic prosperity. The recent strides in commercial and economic collaboration between Bangladesh and Pakistan have garnered widespread appreciation from the South Asian business community. Notable leaders, including Mr. Iftikhar Ali Malik, Former President of SAARC CCI, Mian Anjum Nisar, Vice President of the SAARC CCI Pakistan Chapter, and Atif Ikram Sheikh, President of FPCCI, have lauded and highly commended the initiatives aimed at strengthening economic ties between the two nations.
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