After several years of suspension, direct flights between Bangladesh and Pakistan are expected to resume in December, initially operating three times a week between Dhaka and Karachi. The resumption is seen as a significant step towards strengthening bilateral ties in trade, tourism, and education.
Speaking at a Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) event, Bangladesh High Commissioner to Pakistan, Iqbal Hossain Khan, stressed the importance of the flights for enhancing economic cooperation. “Direct flights are crucial for increasing trade and improving people-to-people connectivity,” he said.
High Commissioner Khan also announced improvements in visa procedures. Following joint recommendations from LCCI and Bangladesh’s honorary consulate in Lahore, visas will now be issued within three to four days, facilitating faster and smoother travel between the two countries.
On the trade front, Khan highlighted the potential for Pakistan to export rice to Bangladesh and for Bangladesh to supply fresh pineapples to Pakistan. He also noted substantial opportunities in the textile and ready-made garments sector, which could see a significant surge in bilateral commerce.
Additionally, a regular cargo shipping service is planned. Although a cargo route between the two countries was inaugurated last December, rising trade demands have created a need for regular operations.
Education cooperation was another key point. Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission plans to send a delegation of twelve university representatives to Bangladesh to encourage more Bangladeshi students to pursue studies in Pakistan. Khan also underscored the tourism potential based on shared culture, history, and social values.
The resumption of flights will be operated by Pakistani private airlines Jinnah and Air Sial, which have recently received approval from the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh. This marks a significant step in re-establishing direct connectivity after years of hiatus.