Ties with Saarc countries one of top priorities: Yunus to Dar

Dhaka: Bangladesh chief adviser Muhammad Yunus in his meeting with Pakistan deputy PM Mohammad Ishaq Dar Sunday highlighted the importance of revitalising all potential avenues of regional and bilateral cooperation.

"I encourage Saarc, and I see our relationship with Pakistan and other Saarc countries as one of the top priorities," he said.

The leaders discussed strengthening bilateral ties, boosting trade, youth-to-youth exchanges, increased education and cultural exchanges and revitalising cooperation through Saarc, also comprising India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Bhutan & Afghanistan.

"Every time Pakistan PM Sharif and I met, we spoke about Saarc. Our visions are aligned, and Saarc remains a top priority for us," Yunus said.

Underscoring opportunities for collaboration and expanding trade ties, Pakistan's deputy PM said, "I feel our two economies are complementary. There are many areas where we can work together."

During his visit to Dhaka, Dar held discussions with advisers of the interim govt, including those responsible for energy and commerce, and met representatives from political parties. The recent developments in the region and the prospects of regional cooperation were also discussed.

Dar said efforts were underway to improve connectivity. "By Oct, we hope Fly Jinnah will launch direct flights between the countries. PIA is also expected to launch direct flights to Dhaka once the airlines is privatised," he said.

Yunus and Dar expressed optimism that enhanced trade, deepening cultural exchange, and regional cooperation would contribute to a more stable and prosperous region.